Taking Stock of the New Year

     As I write this piece, I am looking outside at the first snowfall which blankets the trees and the streets, and reminds me of the opportunity to start the year off on a clean slate. During challenging and ever-changing times, how can we set healthy and realistic goals for ourselves and our families? Here are some ways that I believe can keep us on a healthy path moving forward this new year.

To destress, practice deep breathing and yoga. For beginners, the Wim Hof Method of Guided Breathing (youtube.com) is an excellent video that guides you through three rounds of slow-paced breathing. If you adhere to this daily practice, you will feel more centered and able to deal with the day’s challenges. He also has a YouTube video touting the benefits of taking daily cold showers. This practice reduces stress levels, gives you a higher level of alertness, increases your metabolic rate and, as a result, your immune system. For yoga, the 20 Minute Home Yoga Workout with Adrienne (youtube.com) is a comprehensive guided video for beginning practitioners. No equipment is needed: just an open heart and an open mind.

For more activity, a walk through the woods is always an antidote for a healthy mind and body. Recently, I became a volunteer at Caleb Smith State Park in Smithtown (581 W. Jericho Turnpike). It is a 543-acre nature preserve which includes: hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing trails. The pond is a wonderful place to meditate by. Bird watchers come here to watch for osprey, warblers, and Virginia Rails. On my walks through the park, I often come across a family of deer foraging for greens. I leave feeling peaceful and energized.

For a less solitary experience, invite a few friends over for dinner, or game and movie night. You can also bring in takeout or host a potluck dinner. Last week, we played Scattergories at our friends’ home and had so much fun tweaking our brains for that perfect word or phrase – the laughter was endless. As it is said, laughter is the best medicine!

If this year’s goal is to simply make the best of each day given its challenges, then I believe these techniques and get-togethers will help keep you grounded, focused, healthy and stress-free, confident and complete. As my mother used to say, “Don’t forget to eat your fruits and vegetables and get a good night’s sleep!”

Wishing you all a year filled with good health, peace of mind, and prosperity. One breath at a time.