Your alternative New Year's resolutions

The start of a new year is a great time to introduce healthy habits into your life. But rather than just focusing on diet and fitness, we’ve put together a list of alternative resolutions that will enrich your life on all levels: mind, body and spirit. They’re enjoyable, easy to do and don’t require superhuman willpower. In fact, you may just find yourself sticking to them throughout January – and for months to come.

Every day I will…Have a mug of hot water with lemon
Make this your morning ritual and your gut will thank you. “Lemon juice helps the liver produce bile, which is a mild natural laxative,” explains naturopath Mim Beim. It’s also a source of vitamin C – team it with a drizzle of antimicrobial manuka honey for a resilient immune system year-round.

Every week I will…Dry brush my skin
Dry brushing exfoliates skin and encourages new cell growth. “It also improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which promotes detoxification,” adds Beim. To dry brush, use a natural bristled brush. Starting at your feet, brush upwards in circular movements, working towards your heart. Once you’ve covered your lower body, belly, back and arms, massage in some almond oil, then hop in the shower.

Once a month I will… Spend time in nature
Whether it’s a bushwalk, gardening or sitting under a tree at the park, time in nature helps you recharge on a deep level. “Nature is filled with life-force energy that interacts with our energy field, in turn lifting our energy,” explains Annie Evans, energetic healer, teacher and author of Live the Life You Long For (Allen & Unwin). “To get the most benefits, breathe and be present in nature.”

Once a month I will… Get a massage
It may sound indulgent, but regular massage is one of the easiest ways to boost your overall wellbeing, with benefits ranging from reduced aches and pains to improved mood and mental alertness, according to the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute. Need more convincing? Think of massage as preventative healthcare: US experts found a single session spikes levels of disease-fighting white blood cells.

For more alternative New Year resolutions pick up the January issue of Good Health magazine at magshop.co.nz.