With a new year underway, many of us have several New Year’s resolutions on our to-do lists. In the back of our minds, we may wonder how we will strike a balance that will allow us to accomplish our goals. Often we can start out strong and end up going full speed in the beginning, only to end up burnt out before spring! With that in mind, here are a few simple tips from an integrative family doctor that may help you reset things around the home for your family, and create more space for your goals to come to life!
Kick Mental Stress to The Curb! Consult with an Integrative Family Doctor If You Need Help.
Take a good look at your goals: how many of them do you have? One? Seven?! Ask yourself which of these goals you will look back on and truly feel joyful about accomplishing at the end of this year. Which of these goals will boost the overall health of your family? This will look different for everyone! If it is more quality time with your family, prioritize that goal. If it is saving for a fun family vacation, choose that one! Then rank them with your top goal being the one that will have you jumping up and down with excitement, or move you to happy tears. Keeping your list with 1-3 goals instead of 7-8 will reduce the ‘I must get it all done’ frame of mind. In the integrative medicine world, we understand that mental stress can drive inflammation – and we all want less of that!
Meal Planning Is Your Friend.
Ever get home and find yourself staring at the fridge or pantry, at a loss for a healthy family meal? This scenario is all too common in our fast-paced, overbooked lives (take it from an integrative family doctor with kids of her own)! Take an hour on the weekend and write out a few easy meals you can prep before Monday morning. You can freeze them and pop them in the oven when you walk in the door for something quick and healthy. Check out this book for some amazing recipes that are not only healthy and easy – but specific to your unique needs and Power Type!
Schedule, Schedule, Schedule – but Do So Mindfully!
It is important to schedule activities and events that will plant seeds for togetherness with loved ones and to schedule time for self-care. But for anyone who has a tendency to overbook their calendar, this one is for you! Remember back to tip number one about ranking your goals and keep the same approach with your schedule. Ask yourself as you look over your activity list: must or mental clutter? Mark out any blood pressure raising activities and then start fresh with your pared-down list. Choose 1-3 events to add to your calendar each day that will fill your tank with goodness! This could be heading to the gym, getting help with cleaning your home, soaking in an Epsom salt bath, or a game night with your family.
We hope these tips will help make space for more wellness in your home! Here’s to a healthy and happy New Year!
