As we enter the New Year, it’s time to think about resolutions, intentions and goals for the next 12 months and perhaps even beyond.
For me, four words will shape my 2018. Love. Nourish. Rest and Repeat. Ultimately, this is what I hope to practice this year.
LOVE. When I use the word love, I mean me. To love myself. Love myself enough to care and focus on my personal health and wellbeing. I began this journey last year and it’s something I want to continue to progress in. As a mum of two with a husband that works and travels a lot, it can become very easy to forget to take care of myself when I’m so focused on my girls. Not to mention the guilt that comes with it. But why? Why do we feel so conflicted about something that makes total sense? I have come to realize (with the help of my body telling me), that the best thing I can do to be my best self, is to love myself. Only then will I be the greatest version of me – full of happiness and vitality.
NOURISH. This goes hand in hand with love. Dig deep to find what it is that truly feeds your soul. This year, for me, it’s about relationships and meditation.
I’m going to take a good look at my tribe and surround myself with people that bring me positivity, hope and happiness. People with negative energy and vibes will bring me problems rather than solutions so I’m going to move forward without them.
Meditation is another area I’d like to focus on. It’s only when I start slacking on my usual yoga routine that I realize how much it affects me; my mood, my state of mind and ability to deal with stress. My goal is to practice meditation every day, even if it’s for five minutes, I know it will make the world of difference to my mental and spiritual state of mind.
These are just two of the many pillars that nourish my soul. For you, it might be eating healthily, changing your career, increasing your physical activity, spending more time in nature or managing your finances better. Pick one, prioritize it and work on it – it will make you feel accomplished and nourished.
REST. From nourishing your soul, to resting it. Rest is so important for all of us, yet so underrated. I never get the ideal 7-9 hours of sleep every night, but I know (and feel) how much my body needs it to recharge, repair and restore. So I’m going to try my best to stop mindlessly checking my phone or watching TV, and go to bed a little earlier every night. It’s definitely easier said than done but even 30 minutes is a good start and can make all the difference. Rest is crucial for your physical and mental health but it’s often the first thing we sacrifice. Don't. Take it seriously and get some Zzzzs in. Your body will thank you for it.
And lastly, REPEAT. All of the above, as often as possible, for a happy and healthy life.
LOVE. NOURISH. REST. REPEAT.
That is my intention for 2018.
What’s yours?