5 Tips for a More Mindful New Year

It’s just about that time of year, when the New Year nears, and it’s all about “New Year, New Me.” The “new me” is usually associated with joining the gym and going on a crash diet, all to lose a few pounds. Instead of starting your New Year off with enjoyment and ready to tackle what comes your way, you’re starting it off with food restrictions and stress about going to the gym and “needing” to lose weight.

The New Year means a new season to improve yourself, however for many that means weight loss. Let’s try something different this New Year and reframe your thought process.

Change your “New Year, New Me” mentality into “New Year, More Mindfulness.”

By taking a step back from focusing solely on weight loss and what your body looks like, you’ll develop a greater appreciation for what your body is capable of and what it needs to be at its best.

Here are 5 Tips for a More Mindful New Year:

1. Recommit To Your Diet-Free Journey

Remind yourself why you began your intuitive eating journey or are planning to begin it. Then every time another commercial hits the airwaves, an email pops up in your inbox, or your friend chews your ear off with the new diet they are on, quietly repeat this mantra to yourself “I have committed to a diet-free life. I rock!”

2. State Your New Year Intention

Set a clear intention about what you want to experience in 2023 and what steps you will take to reach your goals. Write down your big intention and keep it in a visible spot around your home. Reflect on it throughout the year when you need a reminder about what you want to accomplish by 2024!!

3. Listen to Your Body

Instead of focusing on the weight you “need” to lose and restricting your favorite foods, focus on listening to your body. What is your body trying to tell you?  Does it want you to stop dieting?  Does it want you to feed it nourishing meals?  By taking the time to listen to your body, you’ll develop a stronger relationship with it, and you’ll learn to love your body.

4. Practice Moderation, Not Deprivation

You may feel like you need to deprive yourself to avoid weight gain, but that’s not true. When you deprive yourself, the backlash is overeating and bingeing.  If you take the time to listen to your body and savor each bite, you’ll find you are satisfied with smaller portions.

5. Avoid Celebrating with Food

Whenever something good happens in life, a birthday, promotion, anniversary, etc., going out to eat is the common way to celebrate. But, if you’re struggling with your relationship with food, this can be a difficult time. Instead of going out to eat to celebrate an occasion, find another way to celebrate that makes you feel comfortable and happy.

By becoming more mindful of your body and what your body needs, you’ll be able to honor and respect it!  With mindfulness, you’ll learn to become an intuitive eater.  You’ll be able to avoid overeating, feeding your emotions, and loving your body once again.