Positive Vibes, Health, and Relaxation: Tools for a Great New Year!

It's no wonder that lots of people are putting self-care at the top of their New Year's resolution list. If you're spending the new year concentrating on a more positive mindset, focusing on health or taking the time to relax, we've got just the right tools to help you achieve your goals! Let's take a look at some ideas that can help you keep your resolution in the new year.

Positive Vibes

Walt Whitman once said, "Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you." Here are some tips for maintaining a positive mindset this year:

• Dial back your news intake. We all want to be aware of what's going on in the world, but there's a point where too much information becomes overwhelming. If you must, keep it to one source and limit your number of check-ins per day.
• Make a gratitude list. If you're feeling depressed or burnt out, put pen to paper and write down everything in your life that you're grateful for, no matter how small. It's a great way to take a time-out and accentuate the positive in your life.
• If you're able, volunteer at a food bank or other non-profit organization. If your schedule doesn't allow for that type of commitment, make a donation to a local charity. Helping others spreads positive vibes!
• Organize your home to de-clutter and de-stress. Vacuum, organize your closet, clean out your refrigerator, or make more room in your pantry.
• Donate items you no longer need. Clothing and furniture are always in demand, and books can be donated to local libraries.

Health and Exercise

Eating right and exercising are important ingredients in maintaining a positive mindset. We've got everything you need to fulfill your resolutions and be a better you in the new year.

• While it's always fun to treat yourself to comfort food, make sure to balance your indulgences with healthy meals. For example, making a breakfast smoothie in a blender brings you plenty of nutrients, plus they're really easy to make. Breakfast is also a great time to enjoy freshly-squeezed juices from a juicer for the perfect morning pick-me-up. For dinner, why not experiment with different ingredients by cooking yourself a vegetable stir fry on your range? Eating well plays an important part in your overall well-being, so don't neglect your diet.
• When the weather's cooperating, get outside! Spending time outdoors, whether on a hiking trail or just a stroll around the block, can raise your spirits as well as your heart rate.
• Not an outdoorsy person? Exercising with a treadmill indoors is another possibility for a healthier new year. You'll be able to get your cardio in without having to leave the comforts of home, and many models offer compact storage for smaller living spaces.
• If you're into fitness and want to amp up your routine, an activity tracker could help bring things to the next level. Tracking your steps, your calories burned, and your activity levels can help keep you motivated and accelerate your workouts.
• Listening to your favorite music or podcast through headphones while working out can help keep you feeling determined!

Therapeutic Relaxation and "Me Time"

Winter can feel isolating at times, but here are some ways to relax and de-stress while making the most of Cozy Season!

• At the end of a long day, sit back and relax in a massage chair or recliner. They're the perfect addition to a living room during the cold winter months.
• While you're relaxing and reclining, click on the TV and watch your favorite comfort movie or TV show. You can also play some video games and set up some snacks for yourself.
• Lose yourself in a good book, whether a new title or one of your old favorites.
• A jigsaw puzzle is a fun solo project. Put on some music and start poring over those pieces!
• Getting a good night's sleep is vital to feeling your best. You can start by making sure you have a supportive, comfortable mattress and box spring.

Self-care is always important, and we hope you'll use these tips to stay positive and feel your best. Have a happy and healthy new year!