The New Year often brings a fresh wave of motivation to set goals and make healthy changes. But why wait until January to start? December might just be the best time to launch your health and wellness resolutions. Here’s why starting early can help set you up for long-term success and make those new habits stick.
- Building Momentum: Start Small, Finish Strong
Waiting until January 1st can feel like a lot of pressure –especially after holiday indulgences. Instead, consider starting in December when you can ease into new habits. By beginning small now, you can build momentum without the “all-or-nothing” mindset that often accompanies New Year’s resolutions.
How to Start:
• Swap one unhealthy snack for a healthier option each day.
• Begin with short, daily exercise routines like a 10-minute walk.
•Introduce simple self-care practices like 5 minutes of meditation.
These small, manageable changes will help you build a foundation for larger goals when January rolls around. - Get Ahead of the Holiday Health Challenges
Let’s face it, December is packed with holiday events, sugary treats, and festive meals. Starting your health journey now gives you an opportunity to develop mindful eating habits and practice moderation before the season’s indulgences get the best of you.
Tips for December:
• Mindful Eating: Slow down and savor your food. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water before meals can help you avoid overeating.
• Keep Moving: Even with a busy schedule, aim for daily physical activity. It can be as simple as dancing to holiday music or taking the stairs.
By beginning your healthy habits now, you’ll enter the New Year feeling balanced and in control, rather than dealing with a holiday hangover of poor choices. - Make it Habit-Forming: 21 Days to Build a Routine
Research suggests that it takes about 21 days to form a new habit. If you start your resolutions in early December, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a solid routine before January 1st even arrives.
Actionable Steps:
• Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for your new habit (e.g., morning stretching, packing a healthy lunch).
• Use a habit tracker app or a simple checklist to track your progress.
• Celebrate small wins! Recognize your efforts, whether it’s completing a workout or choosing a healthy meal.
By the time everyone else is starting their resolutions, you’ll already have a head start with habits that feel like a natural part of your day.
- Combat the Winter Blues with Healthy Habits
Winter months can often bring about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), characterized by lower energy and mood swings. Starting your wellness journey in December can help counteract this by increasing your activity levels, improving your diet, and establishing a positive routine.
Mood-Boosting Tips:
• Get Outside: Even a short walk in daylight can boost your mood and energy.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon, and complex carbohydrates, like oatmeal, which can help regulate your mood.
• Prioritize Sleep: Create a calming bedtime routine to ensure you’re getting enough restorative sleep.
Engaging in healthy habits can help you maintain a positive outlook and more energy throughout the winter. - Skip the January Gym Rush and Avoid the Burnout
Gyms are typically packed in January as everyone rushes to fulfill their New Year’s fitness resolutions. By starting your exercise routine in December, you can skip the crowds and ease into a workout regimen without the pressure of New Year’s expectations.
How to Ease In:
• Try at-home workouts or outdoor activities if you prefer to avoid crowded gyms.
• Set realistic fitness goals, like working out 2-3 times a week, and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
• Choose activities you enjoy – whether it’s yoga, cycling, or dancing – to make exercise something you look forward to.
- Make Self-Care a Priority Before the New Year’s Stress Hits
The holiday season can be stressful, with end-of-year deadlines, shopping, and social commitments. Starting a self-care routine in December will help you manage stress better and approach the New Year with a clear, calm mind.
Simple Self-Care Ideas:
• Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for.
• Mindful Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to help center yourself.
• Digital Detox: Limit screen time, especially before bed, to help improve sleep and reduce stress.
You’ll enter January already feeling more balanced and better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way.