My New Year’s Resolution Wish for You

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If feeling better in your body is one of your New Year’s resolutions, I encourage you to skip the diets, detoxes, ridiculous rules and rigid regimens.

Instead, resolve to be kind to your body.

Really, truly kind.

Here’s what body kindness might look like for you:

  • Giving your body enough rest and sleep.
     

  • Moving your body in a joyful way (no punishing, compensatory workouts).
     

  • Speaking to your body—and about your body—with respect, appreciation, compassion and tenderness.
     

  • Honoring your body’s internal cues of hunger and fullness.
     

  • Eating foods that equally satisfy your body’s need for nutrients and pleasure.
     

  • Dressing your body in clothes that comfortably fit your here-and-now body.
     

  • Immersing your body in nature, nourishing it with sunshine and fresh air.
     

  • Relaxing your body with deep breathing, meditation, acupuncture, a massage, bubble bath, etc.
     

  • Thanking your body every day for everything it does for you (like breathing!).

Staying on Track
To stay on track with this resolution, when making a decision that will impact your wellbeing, pause and simply ask yourself: Am I being kind to my body?

For example:

  • I want to watch another episode, but it would mean losing an hour of sleep. 
     

  • I should skip breakfast since I ate a big dinner yesterday, even though my stomach is growling.
     

  • Running aggravates my knee, but I must do it to control my weight.
     

  • I'm compelled to join in when my friends criticize their bodies; it's how we bond. 

Remember, if you truly want to feel good in your body, kindness is always the answer.