01/13/2025
A New Year And A Fresh Start
Christy Morand, MA LPC
Whether you are a person that makes a New Year’s resolution or not, many people find January to be a time when they reevaluate some life behaviors. Maybe it is because a new year brings the promise of a new or fresh start or it is just a way for people to reset after overindulging during the holidays with food consumption and spending. Whatever the reason, they are motivated to make some positive healthy changes and the most popular one seems to be improving physical health, mainly diet and exercise.
Exercise and diet have a direct correlation to mental health and overall well being. Regular exercise helps to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression as it releases endorphins that are commonly called the “feel good” hormones. Exercise increases levels of serotonin and dopamine which can help to regulate your mood, not to mention it also lowers cortisol levels in the body which is a stress hormone. Physical exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function as well as improve sleep patterns and it can also boost one’s overall self-esteem. In short, improving your diet and adding regular physical activity also improves your state of mind and overall mental health. As a therapist I often encourage clients to add some kind of exercise to their daily routine as a way to decompress and manage stress. My clients report improvement in their symptoms and because they quickly see the benefits it is something they continue to do long-term for their mental health.
The Pew Research Center reports that 43% of people will quit their new year goals within a couple of months. To avoid being a part of this trend, here is a bit of helpful advice. First, set realistic goals for yourself and avoid the all or nothing thinking trap. This can happen when we think we must adhere to a new exercise routine or diet without fail and if we slip up then we give up in discouragement. It takes anywhere from 21 days to several months to create a new habit so be prepared to put in the time. Also, if and let’s face it when you slip up, be kind to yourself. Remember you’re human, life happens and just know that tomorrow is another opportunity to get back on track. If you make your new health goal more about overall health and wellness then really it is about a lifestyle change. This means it is a mindset change. Don’t give up when you hit a winding road with a detour, that’s just how life goes. Take a deep breath, center yourself and get back at it. Whatever the obstacle, there is ALWAYS a solution so stay positive and take it one day at a time. Happy New Year!
