New Year Goals: Declutter The Mind And The Home

I often have a picture in mind of someone sprawled out over an old, comfortable couch, exhausted, with frazzled hair and nerves after all the holiday celebrations. It’s not unusual to feel letdown after all the shopping, wrapping of gifts, cooking, baking, and festivities. One may think, what is there to look forward to? Here are some physical and mental practices that will put your mind and body back on track. 

• Take a long walk in the woods. While you’re out walking, perhaps to Jayne’s Hill or at Montauk Point or your favorite boardwalk, think about all that you are grateful for the past year.  Being mobile is one of the things I am truly grateful for. My health and the heath of friends and loved ones is also highest on my list. With each step you take, be thankful for your ability to move and to think clearly.

• Create a reasonable New Year’s resolution. Perhaps this year it won’t be to lose that extra weight or promise to join and attend a gym. Maybe it will be as simple as a phone call to a parent once or twice a week, helping an elderly neighbor with grocery buying, volunteering at a homeless shelter or park or an after-school homework help program.  With a little more weekend time on your hands after the holidays, it feels good to give back.  It’s a win-win situation for you and those you serve.

• Pick a simple home project. Whether it’s cleaning out a closet, the basement or garage, organizing your desk, books, or cds, take 10 minutes daily until the project is completed. Whatever items you no longer want or use, donate them to your favorite charity. It will make you feel good and you can claim it as a tax deduction.

• Turn off the TV, DVD,  cell phone. One night a week, turn off everything and pick up a book, magazine, or puzzle instead. Have a meaningful conversation with your spouse, partner, or children.  Take time to find out what’s really going on in their lives. 

• Meditate. Focus on your favorite vacation spot, mountain range, or seaside resort.  Visualize drifting off into that  space with nothing left to do except to “be.” Breathe deeply.

Remember the character George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life.  Each one of us has the capacity to impact the life of another.  Let’s try to keep that in mind as we set our New Year’s goals. Happy Holidays and New Year to you and your families!