7 Good Habits to Adopt This Year

1. Be more grateful

When life gets hectic and stressful, it’s easy to fall into a downward spiral of negativity and to forget to be grateful for what you have. So how do we change that? It all starts with one simple word – Gratitude! Now you’re probably thinking – “of course I’m grateful for what I have”. And while that might be true, how many of us truly practice and express gratitude on a daily basis? Studies have shown that practicing gratitude and positive thinking daily can actually reduce stress and anxiety, and make us happier people. So, if you want to start being more grateful this year, here are some tips to help you get started:

• Write it down. Start by making a gratitude journal or simple save your thoughts as a document on your phone. Articulating and jotting down your daily thoughts can make a large difference. Every day, write down 3-5 things you’re grateful for on that particular day. You can either do this at the start of the day or right before you go to bed. Try and be a little specific. For example – instead of writing “Today I’m thankful for a wonderful husband”, write something like “Today I’m thankful for the way my husband made me laugh at dinner-time”. Seek our instances from your daily life that you’re thankful for, such as – a good home-cooked meal, cuddle-time with your kiddos, good weather etc. Doing this daily can actually change the way your brain works, making you a more positive person in the long run. Once in a while, think about the larger things in your life that you’re thankful about too and write those down as well. For example: “I’m so thankful that my parents still have fantastic health”. The power of gratitude can truly change your life.
  
  
• Don’t compare. It’s easy to fall into this trap, especially in the age of social media but it can be extremely unhealthy. Focus on the positives in your own life instead of playing the comparing game.
  
  
• Show your appreciation. Saying thank-you and expressing gratitude even for the smallest gestures are so important. Let your loved ones know that you really notice and appreciate the things they do for you.

2. Begin every day with a short meditation

Why is daily meditation so important? It’s pretty simple –

• The health benefits of meditation are countless – from reducing blood pressure and anxiety to relieving pain, meditation can transform your health.

• It also improves your focussignificantly. You will no longer feel scattered with a million thoughts running through your mind. You’ll begin to notice this change after a few weeks of practicing meditation.

• People who meditate daily tend to feel happier and more relaxed. Many people practice meditation to reduce stress.

Still not convinced? Try it for a week and observe how you feel. Not sure how or where to begin? Here are some great phone apps that’ll help you start your daily meditation practice!

To help reduce anxiety and stress, many doctors will also recommend meditation for new moms and pregnant ladies.

3. Drink more water

We all know the countless benefits of drinking lots of water! Yet, drinking plenty of water is something we don’t really prioritize. Here are some ways in which you can increase your daily water consumption:

• Carry a water sipper with you everywhere you go so that you can drink on the go.

• Drink one glass of water first thing in the morning. Drinking water on an empty stomach helps in flushing out toxins and improves gut health.

• Use an infuser to add a little flavour to your water with fresh fruits, cucumbers, lemon etc.

• Consume foods with high water content.

• Drink one glass of water before you eat. This can even help reduce your food intake.

• Set a few water drinking reminders on your phone at the same time every day.
• Use an app to track your consumption if that works for you.

4. Plan ahead of time

Being organized is easier said than done. But, once done, it can truly keep stress away, helping you feel more relaxed. Want some tips on how to be more organized? Click here to read 10 secrets of super-organized Moms.

5. Practice self-care

When was the last time you spent some time just focusing on your own needs? Prioritize self-care. Not only is it good for your own well-being, but taking good care of yourself also helps you take better care of those around you. Here’s some self-care tips to get you going. Pick any one day of the week (weekends usually work best) and take a few hours to simply take care of yourself. Whether it’s taking a long luxurious bath and indulging in some DIY skincare, going to watch a movie on your own, taking a long walk, spending some time at the salon or simply doing anything that makes you feel good, make the time and do it.

Self-care is also particularly important for new moms and can help greatly in reducing postpartum blues. Click here to read our article on post-pregnancy care tips for new mothers.

6. Read a little every day

The benefits of reading books are innumerable. Reading is food for the brain! Read a little every day, even if all you have are a few spare minutes. Join an online book club to get monthly recommendations. We love this one by Reese Witherspoon. Here are some of her top recommendations to help you get started!

If you’re a soon-to-be Mom, check out our list of ’10 helpful books to read while you’re pregnant’!

7. Exercise regularly

Not all of us have the time and/or motivation to hit the gym daily, go to an exercise class or for a long run. But exercise is VITAL and so, here are some tips to help you get some more exercise regularly.

• Take the stairs, every single time. This way, you can get your daily workout even when you don’t have time for exercise.

• Try and squeeze in some exercise at the start of your day when you’re fresh instead of at the end of the daywhen you might not have enough energy.

• Pick an exercise that you actually LIKE. You don’t have to go to the gym if it’s not your cup of tea. Take a dance class, try pilates, yoga – there’s so many options.

• Get an exercise buddy. Sharing your highs and lows with someone else is great motivation.

• Celebrate small victories. Whether you exercised for ten minutes or for one hour, give yourself a pat on the back.

Will you be adopting all/any of these habits this year? Share your own resolutions below.