As 2016 comes to a close and we make resolutions for the new year, it is also important to remember what we’ve learned and accomplished over the past year. Let’s take a minute to go over some of the things we’ve learned in 2016 and can bring into the new year.
Be Mindful
When it comes to communicating with others, being productive or just living your daily life it is important to be mindful. In 2016 we talked about different ways you can go about being mindful– but it also goes hand in hand with a few other things. For example, different breathing techniques you can do at work (without getting side-eye from your co-workers). Sometimes it is more than necessary to take a breather, and concentrating on your breath can help you relax and stay focused longer. This past year has been a particularly stressful one and to go along with that we have recommended different meditation apps you can download and talked about ways to stay calm when you’re stressed out. Yes, 2016 was a doosy, but that gives you an even better reason to go into 2017 with a clear mind and relaxed body.
Stay Active
It is no secret that we are a big advocate for leading a healthy lifestyle, and that means the occasional trip to the gym or class. This year we gave you local fitspo accounts to take you from scrolling to spinning, taught you a few ways you can incorporate working out into your time at work and refreshing yoga poses anyone can do. We have also discussed a few traditional exercises that should be worked into your routine that will give you those results you’ve been looking for. And if none of that appeals to you remember: when in doubt, dance it out.
Stop it with the takeout already
While staying active is a very important part of being healthy, so is eating right. While cooking is time consuming it will save you a lot of money and calories in the end. So, stock your fridge with the best yogurt out there, replace your fave late-night snacks with these ones and avoid buying lunch by preparing some easy vegan lunches earlier in the week (or the night before). If you’re still living on campus check out some healthy recipes you can make right in your room and if you have a hard time eating healthy around the holidays we have recommendations for that too! So make 2017 the year you learn the right settings for your oven…but if you really can’t cut out takeout, start ordering here instead.
Feel Good
It’s important to slow down and assess how you are feeling from time to time. In a society that is rushing around and always trying to out-perform one another, we certainly don’t take enough time to enjoy the small things or do things for ourselves. We’ve already talked about how you can get in better shape and feel better with a change in diet, exercise and mindfulness- but there is more. Summer can be a particularly hard time to work, it’s nice outside then you have to come into the office and you are either sweating or freezing cold so we gave you some tips on how to shine instead of sweat and how to dress when the office temperature and the temperature outside are two different extremes. We know how stressful this time of year can be so pamper yourself with a DIY manicure or learn to shop online and save money or buy something that will give back! Whatever you end up doing, just remember to appreciate yourself and all that you do.