As the year begins and both physical and mental wellness are at the forefront of resolutions, I wanted to share seven things you should be doing every day to help you become the person you want to be and accomplish all the resolutions you have set.
- Exposure to Sunlight. When you place a house plant in the dark, its leaves begin to wither. A similar, though not visible, effect occurs in humans. We need light to feel good and maintain our mental and physical health. It is important to get sun exposure every day.
- Purpose. Going through life's routines without deeper meaning creates a feeling of stagnation. Finding and pursuing a meaningful purpose invigorates life's daily actions. Spend time this month focused on bringing meaning and purpose to your daily routine.
- Physical Activity. Get up and MOVE! Walk more, play with your pet, or do anything that gets you moving. Prolonged sitting is bad for your body and your brain. Our bodies naturally resist inactivity and desire to engage in activities that get us moving.
- Connection with Nature. An environment dominated by artificial everything, controlled climates, and synthetic surfaces leads to a longing for something that can only be found in natural settings, like forest trails, living things, and starlit skies. Nature can be found at your local park.
- Interpersonal Interaction and Connection. Individuals vary in their social needs, but every single one of us requires some level of direct, eye-to-eye contact and the experience of in-person interaction.
- The Need for Silence. Interestingly, there is a craving for the absence of stimulation. Overwhelmed by constant input, periods of silence offer a surprisingly fulfilling experience. One of my goals for 2024 is to put it down (whatever gadget I am currently holding) and look up and see people. Stillness is not only a necessity but also plays a key role in mental health, creativity, and thinking.
- FUN! Do one fun thing every week and then increase that number as the year progresses. The hardships, struggles, and difficulties of life require us to find the fun! When was the last time you laughed really hard?
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