A fresh new year is the perfect time to regain control of your health and well-being.

Setting goals and resolutions and committing to change can be a big concept to get your head around. Sometimes, it takes a while before changes become new habits. Physical activity and other healthy habits are lifelong behaviors, not one-time events, so making your changes small and, when possible, enjoyable is a great way to approach your goals.

Now is the time to take back your mind, body and soul. This year, resolve to stick to your plan by keeping it active and fresh, moment by moment, with our six-point plan for better living. If you lapse, don't give up – just keep going.

You've got this 😊

Swap scrolling for face time

Social media promises social connection, but the full richness of human relationships is best-found face-to-face. Catching up with friends and colleagues, rather than scrolling through their Instagram accounts, can be a happy retrieve and wash away the stresses of a hectic day. Socializing is also a great way to clear your mind and refocus your attention away from the pressures of projects and deadlines, making you feel refreshed and happier.

Find balance with nature

Add balance to your day by carving out even 30 minutes in nature. Studies show that just 120 minutes a week in a natural space can make you feel better physically and mentally. Head outside during your lunch hour or walk in nature instead of chilling out on your couch. Time spent outdoors helps fight burnout, calms your nervous system and soothes the mind. 

Support your bodies energy & connection needs

Ceremonial Cacao is not only delicious and nourishing, but it's effective for replenishing energy and vitality. Include it in your daily ritual and feel its extraordinary benefits, including: 

• Sustained Energy Increase without the caffeine crash
• As a heart opener for greater connection and creativity
• Reduces sugar cravings and balances hormones and moods
• Enhances exercise performance and assists in post-workout recovery
• Improved mental clarity, making it beneficial for work and study 

Move more

According to the Mayo Clinic, neck, hip and back pain is symptomatic of hours spent behind a desk. Poor posture and sitting in one position strain the spine and the surrounding muscles supporting it. Getting up and moving helps stretch your spine and muscles, releasing pressure. A gentle walk burns calories and lowers the risk of diabetes and heart disease while helping circulation and metabolic function. Just 30 mins of movement per day has been proven to dramatically increase positive mood, increase confidence, lower stress and negativity.

Breathe deeply and relax

Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) help release physical and mental tension by turning your focus toward your body and mindfully relaxing. According to studies, proper breathing while stretching increases circulation, relaxes the body and helps eliminate lactic acid build-up. When you breathe in, you pull air into your lungs. This causes the diaphragm to contract and press down on your internal organs and blood vessels. Taking slow, deep breaths is one of the easiest ways to engage your body’s natural relaxation response. Start by taking ten deep breaths. This alone can slow the breath and create a sense of calm.

Sleep better

As creatures of habit, a well-considered bedtime routine provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, which differs from the uncertainty of insomnia. A consistent 20-minute bedtime routine lets our body and mind know it's time to wind down and get ready for sleep. Try including three to four soothing pre-sleep activities like sipping a herbal tea, taking an oil bath, breathing exercises and listening to soft music. 

Remember, changes don’t happen overnight, and resolutions are easier to maintain over time as our brains acclimate to new regimens. Plan your new year with goals and resolutions, and stick to them for 30 days. Then reassess.

Whether you want to start eating healthier, stay fit, improve your relationships, or work on your mental health or well-being, this is YOUR year!