We see January as a great opportunity to develop healthy habits, whether that means trying something new or building on existing skills or routines.

“Healthy habits are everyday behaviours that positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional health”. (Calm)

There are various things that you can do to try to develop healthy habits including…

  • Regular exercise
  • Better sleep
  • Balanced diet
  • Reduced alcohol
  • Self-care
  • Journalling
  • Professional support
  • Meditation
  • Time in nature
  • Setting boundaries
  • Time with friends & family
  • Volunteer

The above are important because the more that we take care of ourselves through regular exercise, better sleep, a balanced diet and spending time with others, the more positive, long-lasting affect this will have both mentally and physically, and this will also develop better relationships with yourself and others. Try…

  • Increasing the amount you exercise, by doing more of what you enjoy: walking, running, tennis, yoga, Pilates, swimming, dancing.
  • Developing a healthy bedtime routine – less screentime before bed, and go to bed earlier. Try winding down for at least 30 minutes before bed, lower the lights and disconnect from devices.
  • Planning meals in advance and try batch cooking, if cooking each day is overwhelming. Also try new recipes and foods. Why not give Veganuary a try? Check out the plant-based recipes on the BBC
  • Lowering your alcohol intake as this will have a positive effect on your sleep, energy, and skin. 86% of participants of Dry January save money, 70% report having better sleep and 66% have more energy (Alcohol Change). There are various resources on Alcohol Change which you can look at, such as improved drinking behaviours
  • Mindfulness and being present. Try different techniques such as meditation.
  • Journalling to record how you feel – any particular triggers for positive or negative feelings?
  • Spending time with others (friends, family, animals) and spend more time outdoors – getting fresh air when possible.
  • Volunteering to help others. Why not start the year by volunteering, as this is a great way to give back and meet new people.
  • Getting organised through budgets and to-do lists to keep track of goals.
  • Self-care – take care of yourself by focusing on what you need (e.g. more rest, saying no and setting boundaries).

Overall Benefits

  • Higher productivity.
  • Better connections
  • More energy
  • Goals achieved
  • Increased resilience
  • Better quality of life

We hope you are encouraged to try something new this month, or build on your existing healthy habits.