The New Year Doesn’t Have to Mean a New You

The beginning of a new year is upon us. This can be a time of great anticipation, a time to reflect on what is working for you and what changes you could make to live a more balanced, healthier and calmer life. But it can also be a time when people feel guilt, shame, disappointment, anxiety and feel like they are not measuring up. The presence of all of those industries who prey on our sense of selfloathing, lack of confidence or yearning to fit the mould of what we perceive would make us better, happier, more valuable or more accepted is POWERFUL at this time of the year. The reality is that this is the most lucrative time of year for these industries. The onslaught of ads around weight loss programs, hard core fitness programs, self-help and other programs that prey on our feelings of being ‘less-than’ are coming at us hard and fast.

The message that we are often bombarded with is that we are flawed and that ‘doing this program will make you worthy, better, more acceptable’. Whether it’s losing weight, getting fitter, changing your appearance or changing some other part of your life, the advertising suggests that we will reach the pinnacle of self-confidence and a perfect life if we do these things. That is not to say that health and fitness is NOT important. It certainly is. But, newsflash……..YOU are absolutely worthy AS YOU ARE – RIGHT NOW. You don’t have to fit a certain size, or have a particular thing, or be achieving great things to be deserving.

What if, we looked at the new year as a time to focus on nourishing ourselves rather than changing or depriving ourselves? About caring for ourselves instead of berating ourselves? To nourish is not to deprive, berate or punish – it is to cherish, foster and grow. It is important to not just consider our physical bodies, but also nourish and care for our mind and emotions.

As you consider what you want for yourself for 2020, we encourage you not to focus on a number on a scale, or equate your worthiness with achievement, but to create intentions around activities that make your mind, body and spirit feel nourished and restored. Let this year be the time that you begin to gently care for yourself. Some things you might consider are:

MIND

  • Create a routine – this can help you to feel calmer about your day

  • Say ‘No’ if you’re feeling overwhelmed (they’ll get over it!!)

  • Learn something new – listen to a new podcast, read a new book, watch a new tv show

  • Go somewhere new – it doesn’t have to be far away, look at what your local community has to offer and join in.

  • De-clutter – clean out a drawer, or donate something you don’t use any more

  • Give yourself permission to relax – no guilt!!

  • Seek help if you need to – call a friend or family member, or if something feels bigger than you can handle, make a counselling appointment

  • Mindful activity – craft, puzzles, colouring in

  • Re-commence an old hobby

  • Digital Detox – consider how your use of social media makes you feel – reduce time on or delete apps that make you feel drained, anxious or just blah!

BODY

  • Get More Sleep – sounds simple, but seriously

  • Choose physical activity that YOU love – it doesn’t have to be hardcore (unless you really want it to be) – it could be dancing, yoga, Zumba, pilates, swimming, aqua-aerobics or just go for a gentle stroll

  • Body affirmations – be intentionally grateful for your body and what it does for you

  • Include more veggies in your next meal

  • Cut down on sugary foods

  • Love your body as it is right now

SPIRIT

  • Connecting with nature – walking in the bush, swimming in the ocean

  • Meditating

  • Journalling – write down your feelings or what you’re grateful for

  • Connect with Others

  • Volunteer

  • Hug your loved ones

If you would like to access the free counselling service at The Centre for Women & Co. please call us on 3050 3060.

Centre for Women & Co. Centre for Women & Co.