As we enter a new year and decade, many aim to improve their lives, but change can be tough. Mindset plays a crucial role, along with SMART goals. Language matters too; swap "resolution" for something meaningful like "non-negotiables." Know your why, seek support, and anticipate hurdles for lasting change.

Practice gratitude – every night before you got to bed, think or write down three things you are grateful for in your life. The more specific the better. This simple activity down-regulates the stress response allowing for better sleep.

These may seem quite basic for some of you, which is great. However, when we get busy, tired or simply change our routine, the basics can be the first to go. At this busy time of year, it is important to achieve a balance amongst the fun, food and friends and family, by honouring yourself with these health foundations

Food plays a crucial role in gut, skin, and mood issues. It can lack nutrients, contain problematic chemicals, or not suit you. Changing your diet is challenging due to habits, time, and access. To succeed:

1. Research alternatives and read labels.

2. Create a meal plan and explore new recipes.

3. Prepare meals in advance.

4. Seek support from friends, online communities, or professionals. Consistent, not perfect changes lead to better health.

Quality sleep is vital for our well-being, yet the exact reasons for sleep remain mysterious. Lack of it leads to fatigue and mental fog. To gauge your sleep quality, ask: Do I wake up refreshed and tackle the day energetically? If not, try these tips:

• Aim for 8 hours of consistent sleep.

• Reduce screen time before bed.

• Establish a bedtime routine.

• Avoid intense exercise and heavy meals before sleep.

• Manage daytime stress, and address any sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Prioritize restorative sleep for better health and resilience.

Improving gut health involves piecing together a holistic health picture for clients. Stress is a common puzzle piece, with variations in its nature, impact, and responses. Today's world thrives on immediate responses, causing chronic stress. But is it making us healthier or more productive? Chronic stress leads to fatigue, erratic gut issues, hormonal imbalances, weight gain, low confidence, anxiety, depression, and addictions. Recognizing stress's impact is crucial, followed by addressing lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, exercise, mindset, and breathing to enhance stress resilience. Explore a self-paced Stress Resilience Program for more insights.

Many put their health on hold while caring for family or pursuing careers, leading to physical and emotional decline. Prioritizing health, seeking professional support, and making necessary changes offer hope and relief. Nutrition and accountability aid in overcoming hurdles, enhancing overall well-being, enabling better care for loved ones, and improving job performance.

Many clients are struggling with stress and exhaustion, exacerbated by the unrealistic image of perfection on social media. They feel inadequate, isolated, and unsupported. The message is clear: don't buy into it. Social media is a curated snapshot, not life's full picture. Connect authentically with friends, listen to their struggles, and offer support. True connection is honest, imperfect, and perfect in its own way.

The author reflects on the valuable life lesson they learned from a wise friend named Lina. Lina's advice was about the concept of "16 balls," where each ball represents one's ability to care for various aspects of life. Lina emphasized the importance of reserving eight balls for oneself, highlighting the need for self-care to effectively care for others. The author encourages readers to assess how many "balls" they allocate to themselves amidst life's challenges and offers support through herbs, nutrients, and lifestyle choices to manage stress and regain balance.