1st January 2025
Do New Year's Resolutions Actually Work?
30 second read
Ah, the dawning of a new year! Time for fresh starts, new gym memberships, and, of course, the age-old tradition of New Year's resolutions. But do these promises to ourselves actually work, or are they just a sophisticated way to set ourselves up for disappointment?
Statistics reveal the harsh truth: about 80% of resolutions fail by the second week of February. That’s right! If your resolution was to hit the gym every day, by mid-February, you’re more likely to be found on the couch, binge-watching yet another season of a show you’re not even enjoying that much.
So, should we even bother? The answer is a resounding...maybe! Making resolutions can be a great way to envision your goals; however, the approach matters more than the resolution itself.
Let’s talk strategy. First off, instead of resolving to "lose weight," try setting a specific target, like “exercise for 30 minutes, three times a week.” Not only does that sound attainable, but you might even allow yourself to enjoy a slice or two of pizza afterwards without the usual guilty feeling.
Another key tip? Aim for progress, not perfection. Sure, you might trip over your own enthusiasm during that first jog, but the important thing is to laugh it off and keep going. Remember, those who don’t wear the latest fitness gear but can still tackle a staircase are the true champions of progress.
Lastly, enlist a mate! Find someone who shares your resolution, and suddenly those long, painful runs become less of a punishment and more of a shared misery—think of it as bonding over mutual suffering!
So, to sum up, yes, New Year’s resolutions can work if approached strategically—with a delightful side of humour.
After all, self-improvement doesn’t have to be a solemn affair; a little laughter at our own expense can go a long way. Here’s to a new year and the hopeful journey of working toward our goals!
12th February 2025
I often get asked 'can you give me some tips to improve my wellbeing?'
1 minute read
Did you see the sunshine briefly last week? Me too and what a difference it makes. I know it seems to have disappeared again but I'm not letting that feeling go! With a (potential) warm(ish) breeze (or gale if, like me, you live in the Northeast) nudging you toward the outdoors and a cavalcade of floral aromas soon to be tantalising your senses, it’s the perfect time to sprinkle some wellbeing into your life.
Here are my top ten Springtime tips that even the busiest bee can squeeze in—no bee suits required...
1. Embrace the Sneezes
Pollen is the universe's way of saying, "Get outside!" So grab some tissues, step out, and practise deep breathing. Nature is basically your zen guru, minus the incense.
2. Plant Your Dreams
If you can’t commit to a garden, why not grow a few potted herbs? If they survive, you’re basically a horticulturist. If not, let’s just call it “artistic expression.”
3. Sunshine and Smile
Find a sunny spot, close your eyes, and absorb those vitamin D rays. Bonus points if you do a ridiculous sun salutation that makes passers-by question your sanity (mine resembled Julie Andrews with a Sound of Music vibe).
4. Hydrate Like You Just Did a Marathon
Spring means warmer weather, so sip water like you’ve just completed a 5k. Feeling fancy? Infuse it with some citrus or cucumber and pretend you’re at a spa.
5. Nature Walk-‘n’-Roll
Instead of scrolling through your phone, roll through the great outdoors. A brisk walk can boost your mood faster than a double shot of espresso—no caffeine crash included.
6. Dance Like Nobody’s Watching (because they're not)
Blast some upbeat tunes while you tackle your chores. Who cares if you make weird moves? You’re working out and getting stuff done—two birds, one groovy stone!
7. Declutter Your Life
Channel your inner Stacey Solomon. Throw out the old and make space for the new. If it doesn’t spark joy or you haven't used it in 12 months, chuck it! Your living space and sanity will thank you.
8. The Great Social Media Detox
Challenge yourself to a weekend without social media. The carrot of real interaction awaits! Who knows, you might even have a conversation that doesn’t involve scrolling!
9. Gratefulness Rocks
Grab a notebook and jot down ten things you appreciate. It doesn't have to be deep, your oddly shaped carrot from the supermarket? Yup, include that! It’s a dish worthy of thankfulness—because happiness is ALL about perspective.
10. Reinvent Your Comfort Zone
Try something new, be it a yoga class or that tasty cooking recipe you’ve been eyeballing. Worst-case scenario, you become a kitchen disaster—best-case, you’re the star of the next culinary show!
So there you have it! A layered cake of wellbeing tips for the busy folks out there. Spring is the ultimate time to shake things up and nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Now, go forth and bask in that springtime glow—just don’t forget your sunglasses!
19th February 2025
Splash into Wellbeing: The Cold Water Swimming Habit You Didn't Know You Needed!
2 minute read
If you’ve ever dipped a toe into a chilly lake while your friends gleefully splashed around, you probably experienced the same rush of excitement mixed with a touch of panic that comes with cold water swimming. While this might seem like a peculiar pastime reserved for the brave (or the slightly unhinged), the benefits are backed by research and it could be just the thing to elevate your wellbeing—if you can get past the initial shiver!
The Benefits of Cold Water Swimming
Cold water swimming is not just about the thrill or the shock to your system; it’s actually a ticket to a whole host of health benefits. Research suggests that routine exposure to cold water can improve circulation, enhance mood, and even bolster your immune system. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Hypotheses, cold exposure can trigger the production of norepinephrine, a chemical that can reduce inflammation and may even help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. But wait, there's more! Studies have shown that regular cold exposure (think swimming, not just stepping into a brisk shower) can increase metabolism and promote weight loss. The British Journal of Sports Medicine reported that cold water swimming could increase the body’s calorie burn by up to 400 calories per swimming session. So, you can literally chill out and melt away those calories!
Getting Started: The Leap into Cold Waters
Now that you're convinced this ice-cube of a habit is worth trying, let’s talk about how you can ease into it.
1. Acclimatise Gradually: Just like any new habit, it’s best to ease yourself in. Start with cold showers, progressively lowering the temperature over time. Aim for a daily commitment of just a few minutes to toughen yourself up before taking the plunge.
2. Find Friends with the Same Cold Feet: Joining a local swimming group can help you build not only resilience but also camaraderie. Plus, nothing beats the motivation of a group of friends who are just as crazy as you, the laughter and shared experiences will make the cold feel a bit warmer!
3. Set Realistic Goals: Start small. Aim for just a couple of minutes in the water the first time. Slowly increase your time when you're ready—let your body be your guide and don't push it too fast. The goal is to feel invigorated, not frostbitten.
4. Dress the Part: Invest in a good swimsuit and possibly a wetsuit if you're in a particularly chilly region. Trust us; there’s no shame in looking slightly more prepared. Plus, it’ll keep you warmer and more comfortable, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
5. Embrace the Chill: When you first get in, you might gasp like a startled cat. Take a deep breath, focus, and remind yourself that you’re doing this for your wellbeing. Soon you'll find that the cold becomes your friend—a quirky, exhilarating companion on your journey to wellbeing.
6. Understanding the Safety Implications: Cold water swimming offers numerous benefits, but it is essential to understand the safety implications involved. Exposure to cold water can lead to hypothermia, which occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, and fatigue, which can impact swimming ability. It is crucial to acclimatise gradually to cold water and never swim alone. Wearing a wetsuit can provide thermal protection, and knowing the signs of adverse reactions can help prevent emergencies. Always assess weather conditions and seek medical advice if you have underlying health issues prior to engaging in this activity.
Final Thoughts
Cold water swimming may seem daunting at first, but with the right mindset and approach, it can become a refreshing part of your routine. So why not give it a try? You could end up with a new passion that not only boosts your mood but also leaves you feeling more alive than ever. So grab your swimsuit, rally your friends, and jump into the icy allure of wellbeing—your body will thank you!
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