Resolve to Get Back to Basics in 2022
Who’s ready to live their best life in 2022? It’s been a rough couple of years, but as we look ahead, why not choose to make this year’s New Year’s Resolutions all about getting back to basics? Simple things that highlight what matters most such as meaningful connections, positive experiences, good food, and a little self-care. Just in case you need some inspiration, here’s some ways you can resolve to create a simpler yet happier and more fulfilling life in the new year.
Sleep
This is the year to stop saying “I’ll sleep when I die,” and realize the benefits of getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night. While lack of sleep might make for a grumpy morning, skimping on sleep can do more damage than just making you moody. Getting a good night’s sleep can boost your brain power, reduce your blood pressure, repair your muscles and skin, steady your blood sugar, and boost your immune system. Why not maximize your overall well-being and catch those zz’s.
Start Saving
There is something to be said for saving for a rainy day. Even if you only have a few dollars to spare each month, commit to set them aside in a savings plan that will benefit you in the long run. Trust us the older version of you will thank you for it. We’re talking about small changes that will help you automatically set aside money that you didn’t even realize you were missing. Check out these basic tips for making more room in your budget and start saving:
- Want a new piece of furniture? Try upcycling. Known as creative reuse, not only will it save you money, but you’ll love the stress-reducer you’ll feel by getting creative with those trash to treasure ideas.
- Cut a subscription. Whether a premium channel or an app, chances are you forgot about it. Go in and commit to canceling anything you don’t use on a regular basis.
- Save on gas: With gas prices at crazy highs, you can still find ways to save by using apps to find the cheapest gas around, pay with cash, or join a fuel rewards program.
Connect More
Ditch the electronics and make a concentrated effort to show up for your family and friends. You’ll be blown away at how your mood will change. Try and think about ways to spend time together while doing something good for yourself or the community. Some simple ideas include going to the gym together, volunteering, organizing a clothes swap, meal prep for the week, or shop and eat local together.
Eat Well
Ditch the word diet and focus on eating well. Choosing a healthful diet may help you live longer, keep your skin, teeth, and eyes healthy, boost your immunity and improve your mood. Look for nutrient-dense foods from all the food groups, eat fresh and avoid foods that contain trans-fat, added salt and sugar. Don’t be intimidated, eating well doesn’t have to be hard. Check out these healthy meal ideas that require little effort. Don’t forget to focus on drinking enough water, too.
Make Time for Me Time
One positive trend that came out of the pandemic is a renewed commitment to self-care. In fact, health professionals say that engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce stress, improve concentration, and improve energy. While practicing true self-care sounds great in theory, it isn’t always easy to put into practice. Give yourself permission to care for you with these simple ideas:
- Morning rituals. Take a few minutes each morning and ask yourself what you need to handle your day. Journaling is a great way to capture your thoughts, look for patterns in your feelings and be more accountable to steps you are taking in self-care. Nothing like a cup of coffee, a quiet morning, and a journal to get your day on track.
- Set boundaries. Boundaries can help us take care of ourselves. When you understand how to set and maintain healthy boundaries, you can avoid the feelings of resentment, disappointment, and anger that build up when limits have been pushed. Learn to set them in a way that benefits you and those you care about, and don’t be afraid to use them.
- Pamper yourself. Whether you read a book, take a nap, or treat your skin to a face mask, slowing down is okay. Or, consider professional massage or skincare treatments. Doing these things on a regular basis will go a long way in how you look and feel.
Explore More
Even if it’s just to explore close to home, getting out of the house can do wonders for your health and mood. Go for a hike, explore a local historical site, or visit a museum; all are easy and inexpensive to do. As for the health benefits? Exploring can improve your self-esteem, boost your immune system, increase your exercise, and help you destress.