In this week’s Quicky, and seeing how it is New Year’s Eve, I want to share with you some of my tips on how to make health your greatest asset and focus for 2021. It has been a challenging year indeed. There is no doubt 2020 has humbled us all and maybe for the first time as a whole it has created space for honest reflection, a chance to look in the mirror and see what we can do better and how we can support one another to be more happy and healthy. Here’s what I think might help each of us to be our best selves for a brand new year.

Some would say this has been the worst year of their lives, and you don’t have to go far to hear some of the hideous and tragic challenges so many have endured.

Many say they let good routines change to their health’s detriment, they gained weight and let their health priorities go.

Others would say it has been a remarkable year, a year of magic, a chance to re-set, regroup and rethink what truly matters.

Some got focused, created a home gym, lost weight even found a new love of home cooking.

Whatever side of the fence, no matter how you choose to view it, life has changed for everyone this year, and it will continue to challenge us on all levels until our ‘new normal’ resides.

According to the Black Dog Institute, many Australians and New Zealanders have been impacted by fear, anxiety and panic about coronavirus (COVID-19). Common consequences include depression, anger, confusion and uncertainty, and financial stress, with estimates of between 25% to 33% of the community experiencing high levels of worry and anxiety.

It’s understandable. No one really knows our immediate future.

But what we do know is continued worry and anxiety, bad habits and not focusing on our health is not sustainable. At some point, our mind and body will say enough, and it is well documented that what we think and do can indeed affect the way we all live our lives.

So, what’s the answer? How do we rise through such uncertainty? What can we do individually and as a community?

I really do not have the answers but I when I think logically and with common sense, there seems to be a number of simple things we can do that can make a difference in our homes and therefore create a positive ripple effect into our community.

Perhaps we now have a once in a generation opportunity that we can be greater than the sum of our parts.

And it starts with our health.

Our energy, mental clarity and ability to get through all challenges are deeply rooted in our daily healthy habits and rituals and of course our values.
We may not feel it or indeed want to acknowledge it but here is an opportunity to look for the gifts. Every time you feel challenged, look for a new perspective and ask yourself, ‘What is a more useful thought or action I could take?’ It could be as simple as switching off the news and reading something uplifting or getting outdoors and focus on one beautiful thing you see, smell, hear or feel. Be grateful for what is, not what isn’t.

The powerful effects of meditation are renowned but for many making time to sit and meditate for hours on end is impossible. Instead get really present and mindful of the moment you are in. If chopping up vegetables for dinner be mindful of the farmer who grew them and the nourishment they provide. Create many daily micro-moments of mindfulness as they are as effective as a longer meditation session.

Life is busy, there are many distractions to steer us away from focusing on our health and push us into fight or flight (stress) mode. Taking long deep breaths regularly stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and enhances your ability to rest and digest (relax). Add the potent healing qualities of essential oils and you enhance the power of breath tenfold.

Let’s be honest where we live down under is one of the most magical places on the planet. Swim, jog, dance, gym, yoga, pilates, whatever you choose, just do it, move your body. No more excuses. If the only thing you commit to is to walk for 10-30 minutes a day and drink in your amazing surroundings, then you are a master mover.

What you place into and onto your body affects your health so take inventory of what you are eating and using. Choose real whole foods as close to nature as possible and drop packaged foods. Buy from your local farmer’s markets. Place natural products on your skin, there are so many amazing local natural brands. Notice what you are purchasing and avoid foods and skincare with questionable ingredients and additives. I am super proud of my business Twenty8 Essentials so if you’re looking for high-quality natural products then head to www.twenty8.com

You’ve heard it already but every time you buy from a local business, that owner is doing the biggest happy dance. Buying products that serve your health is the greatest gift. And it is a beautiful way to boost the state of health for all business owners who have done everything that can to ride 2020.

We may not be able to change what is happening on this planet right now or do anything about the decisions governments make, but we can do the best we possibly can. You do not have to do everything all at once to be the healthiest version of you, do what you can, improve each day and be gentle on yourself.

And finally, if you are still not sure what to do to get through this challenging year, if you do not know who to be or what you can offer, then focus on being the healthiest happiest version of you. Serve others. Offer a helping hand where you can. And most of all take care and be kind.

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MUSIC INTRO & OUTRO
Many thanks to Wes and Charlotte Carr – https://wesleydeanmusic.com/