New Year’s Resolutions you’ll actually keep

It’s more important to keep them, than make them.

Every year we‘re faced with the inevitable pressure to lock in some ‘water tight’ new year’s resolutions. Well, we think you should say ‘no’ to convention this year. Instead of a load of hard to stick by changes that you’ll feel guilty not keeping, choose a few ‘mini resolutions’ that over time will help you stay healthier and happier.

via Instagram @kristyleecross

Mini-resolution #1: Breathe deeply

Yep, this one seems easy, but we mean really breathe. You may not have time or the head space to meditate, but at least once a day take a moment to take five deep breathes, each time counting to five, and counting out to five as you exhale. Make sure your belly expands as you breathe, and not just your chest. Studies show that deep abdominal breathing can help alleviate stress, sleep disturbances, irritability, anger and can help focus your thoughts.

via Instagram @pia

Mini-resolution #2: Get some pup time

While we can’t all be lucky enough to own a pooch, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience all the benefits of hanging with a dog. You could offer to walk a friends’ pup, or pet sit for them when they go away (or have a big one planned), or even help out at your local shelter walking the dogs. A little canine time has been shown to lower stress and anxiety and even boost your immunity! Plus, they make good insta photos…

via Instagram @caseboon

Mini-resolution #3: Plan friend dates

Instead of relying on FB updates and insta Stories, this year prioritise face-to-face catch ups with your BFFs. A recent study found that face-to-face interaction with friends not only boosts our health but it can also help us fall asleep faster. The key is to lock in a couple of dates in advance and treat those like gospel. No cancelling! And each time a different person chooses the activity – bonus points if that activity helps you move more. Think roller-skating, dance class, yoga or a bush walk.

Mini-resolution #4: Have an unfollow sesh

Social media. It offers up the best and the worst that the world has to offer! Just because you love your FB, Snapchat or Insta account, doesn’t mean you have to follow everyone you know, or anyone that makes you feel bad about yourself. Take the time this year to do a little social media audit. Scroll through your feed and every time you reach an image that has a negative affect on you, unfollow, mute or snooze them. Think of social media as your vision board, you need to feel good about looking at it.

via Instagram @lifeof_riley

Mini-resolution #5: Be selfish

This year, take some time to invest in your mental health. Think about all the things that affect your mood and your emotions. Can you move them out of your life? Perhaps social media makes you feel jealous – take 30 minutes and ‘hide’ anyone on Facebook you don’t want to see. Does one of your friends leave you feeling drained and tired after a catch up? Maybe call them less and start to hang out with people that make you feel happier. Do you need some alone time – don’t plan anything for a few days. Take long baths and read books. Being a little more selfish could be just what your mind needs.

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