What Will Your Wellness Practice be in 2021?
The New Year of 2021 is fresh upon us! The hope is that there are better days ahead even as the uneasiness, trauma, chaos and other remnants of 2020 linger. Many have found coping methods for peace, growth, strength and even health in a daily wellness practices for clarity of mind, a healthy body and a nourished spirit.
However, if you are looking for a way to work out stresses, discomfort, worry or achiness of the body, there are wellness practices to consider to help.
Because we are different beings one wellness practice does not suit or resonate with all. The key to any practice is CONSISTENCY. Practicing wellness in a thoughtful and repeated manner can ensure success in reaching the goal you’ve set for yourself in this new year and beyond.
During 2020, I grabbed every wellness tool I knew to keep myself focused on maintaining a clear head as I worked remotely in a solitary environment; dealing with corporate toxicity from home and mourning the loss of and separation from family members. When my thoughts dimmed from time to time, I actively sought a wellness resource or was primed to reset the stinkin’ thinkin’ into higher vibes that put me back on track.
I offer a few brief descriptions and benefits of some practices that may suit your soul as you move through 2021, consistently. Feel free to use these independently of one another or combined to meet your needs, beliefs or willingness to open up to something new. The key again is consistency of the practice once you get started.
Meditation - techniques that are performed to bring one clarity, awareness, relaxation and even energy. This practice can be done throughout the day but is effective when rising in the morning and relaxing into a comforting sleep at night. One very effective technique used in meditation is the use of breath or commonly referred to as “breath work”.
Meditation has been part of my life as I’ve used it to generate energy through affirming gratitude. Once I’ve thought of what I have (such as work that sustains me, good health, a roof over my head - the basic necessities) a bad moment at the office becomes a day of promise..
Prayer - an expression of thanks, gratitude or request for comfort to God, the Universe or source of faith depending on one’s beliefs. Prayer, by far is something that is more common and known as it is associated with religion or religious ceremony. The benefits include include connecting with, developing a relationship with a higher power to find answers, direction and understanding.
As a child raised in the tradition of the Baptist Church as a Christian, prayer has been with me since birth. I have always thought of prayer as the act of communicating with God; a one on one meeting where I speak while God listens; Through contemplative prayer, God then answers. I find the answers to questions, problems and comfort within me through prayer.
Walking (or some form of movement) - The practice of walking may seem mundane, simple or down right boring but is the most natural movement (if able bodied enough to do so).. A good walk on a daily basis is one of the most impactful physical activities one can do especially in open spaces such as parks, trails, wooded surroundings or less frequented city landscapes.
Just 30 minutes a day has been proven to begin the physical healing process for many chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, anxiety and so much more. that effect the heart (cardio vascular system), lymphatic system, mental health and good for so many reasons including exercising the heart, muscular system, lungs and vision.
Journaling - Simply put, journaling is writing what comes to mind. Writing may done through stream of conscious, with intention, through guidance, for purposes of planning, or doodling.
Some of the proven benefits of journaling are clarity, overall progress and growth; increase and improve self-awareness, self-confidence, communication skills and memory.
Journaling is my favorite wellness practice. I journaled when my youngest sister was diagnosed with clinical mental illness and felt hopeless about her future. Journaling and writing was my practice when I was experiencing unfulfillment and marginalization during my chosen profession. Journaling “saved” me when experiencing the destruction of my marriage and family life.
There are plenty more wellness practices that can be considered for this new year. If you've practiced any of those listed above, consider trying something new. Once you’ve made a decision as to taking action for your self care, get started, stick with it and keep track of your progress.
It’s been my experience to do all of these practices consistently throughout the week utilizing the time that I have before and after work - prayer and meditation. At times of unexpected stress, I reach for the quickest fix - breath work and meditation.
If I have a little more time during a “ca-razy” day after work, I grab my mask, wallet and keys and take a power walk where there are few people or good social distancing - I walk to focus myself and gain clarity. I also reach for my journal that sits on the same desk I use for work so that I may express my joy, sadness or dismay even when I’m on the clock.
Suggestion: Pick one of these tools and DO it for over 25 days. The key is to take action consistently.
It is my hope that whatever you decide, rolls into a moving, sustaining practice that provides comfort, clarity, openness (mindfulness) and energy for the days ahead. Give yourself time to settle into a practice until it becomes part of you, your routine, your day and long throughout the year.
Finally, I offer an opportunity for you to get in touch with yourself through the practice of journaling. For the month of January 2021, spend time with guided prompts, affirmation and inspiration found on the Wellside Retreats website or on Instagram and Facebook @wellsideretreats
Sign up for Writing with Wellside for a deeper practice of journaling, writing and healing starting Thursday February 6th, 2021.