Yahoo Lifestyle 10 Simple Tweaks to Change Your Life in 2015
1. Live in the present
Forget the past and live in the now. Thinking about bitter old memories and the ‘what ifs’ can drag yourself into a negative mental slump. A useful tool to help reset your mind to live in the present is to simply sit still and be aware of your surroundings: listen to every sound, feel the wind on your skin and the rise and fall of your chest. This allows your mind to relax and your body to soften. As your thought processes become clearer you’ll soon appreciate much more around you.
2. Keep in tune to your body
Your body is your temple, so it pays to listen to what it has to say. Feeling lethargic? Perhaps you are going to bed to late, or your diet lacks essential vitamins or minerals. A green smoothie every morning along with 30 minutes of meditation and regular sleep patterns, could be just what your body needs.
3. Ditch your debt
Make it a priority to rid yourself of debt this year. Start by planning to clear personal loans or high interest credit card bills, both of which are quite the financial and emotional drain. Throw every extra dollar towards clearing your debt and embrace the freedom that comes with.
4. Step outside
You don’t need to be a scientist to know that immersing yourself in nature benefits the body, mind and soul. There will be days when you can’t bring yourself to get out and about but don’t beat yourself up. Once you’re outside in the fresh air and the feel-good endorphins kick in, a brief 10-minute walk around the block can be just the kick-starter you needed.
5. Eat well and move more
What we eat has such a massive bearing on wellbeing. You wouldn’t fuel your car with dodgy fuel so why do it to your body? Break bad food habits by starting a food and exercise diary, taking note of what you eat and how it makes you feel. The same goes for exercise. Write down your goals, such as to lose weight or tone up, and work towards them each week. Log your workouts in your diary and assign a workout buddy to help keep you motivated and on track.
6. Learn to listen
In the age of social gratification distractions are everywhere. Learn to switch off your smartphone or laptop and tune in to those around you. Ask how they’re doing and genuinely listen. No matter what kind of relationship it is you are trying to form, a good listener is always appreciated.
7. Challenge yourself
Break out of your comfort zone and try something new. This doesn’t mean you need to go base-jumping or run a marathon. It could be as simple as walking a new route to work or switching your steak for a vegetarian option.
8. Help those in need
Money is an obvious choice if you can afford it, otherwise donate your time to those in need such as volunteering at a local charity, soup kitchen or RSPCA. A simple heartfelt compliment might be all it takes to bring a smile to another human. Not only will this have a positive effect on the recipient, it’ll give you a feel-good boost too.
9. Take time out
Make a regular ‘me’ date with yourself. Run a relaxing bath, sit back with a good book or head outdoors for a long walk. Even if it’s 30 minutes per week, taking time out gives you the chance to mentally and physically unwind and recharge.
10. Be grateful
Write down seven things that you’re truly grateful for at the end of the day or before bed. This may be friends, family, food on the plate, or the roof over your head. Focusing on the positive immediately lifts our spirits and allows us to think more clearly. The world truly is a beautiful place so just relax, breathe, and enjoy.
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