September: The Season to Start Something New!
As the lazy days of summer end, and we turn our attention to fall the opportunity for change presents itself. People often set new intentions at the beginning of the year, but September can also be the start of something new as everyone returns to regular routines. What have you been wanting to do that seems impossible? New exercise program or return to old exercise plan? Change in eating habits? More self-care? More time with friends and family? Or maybe you need less responsibility and more time to just be? Whatever it is September is a great time to start something new.
Here are some suggestions to help make this a September to remember:
- Connect with a friend to increase accountability around exercise. Make a plan to meet regularly and exercise. Exercise not just for physical health, but for mental health as well. It is a known fact that exercise improves your ability to cope with stress and improves your mood. Have you ever gone to the gym or went for a walk and thought afterwards that it was a waste of time?
- Reach out to a professional to help you set-up a new exercise program or eating plan. If that is outside of the budget check out the internet for suggestions or get books on the subject. Remember that you are not just eating to fuel your body. You are eating for mental health as well. Managing stress and solving everyday problems is easier if you start the day with breakfast. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just eat something.
- Now is the time to sign up for that yoga class or self- improvement class that you have always wanted to take. Self-care is important. You cannot care for others if you are not feeling rested and well. Check out your local college or university for continuing education classes or the parks and recreation guide for your city. Make time for you. You will not regret the time you spend on yourself and you will be better able to handle the challenges in your life.
- The idea of taking time to just “be” is a foreign concept to many of us. It is all about packing as much stuff as possible into a day or weekend. What does it even mean to just “be”? Start by slowing down. Take that coffee or tea out to the deck or patio in the morning. Sit. Notice your surroundings. Do you hear anything? Pay attention to your breathe. Sip your beverage and pay attention to the moment. This is harder than you may think as you start to think about everything and anything. Try it. If only for 5 minutes. Practicing mindfulness will reduce your stress.
Make this September different. Pick one thing that you would like to accomplish. Set aside a regular time to do it. Small steps forward. If you need help, or want to talk to someone about new beginnings, please contact Annette Poechman.
Remember you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward…just take the next step.
Listening. Guiding. Caring.
