The start of a new year is the perfect time to make an intentional shift and adopt changes designed to improve our health and well-being.

Although setting new habits can be difficult for most of us at the best of times, entering the new year might seem more challenging with the ongoing global pandemic and current lockdown measures.

As a small business owner leaving behind seven months of forced closure in 2020 and facing further weeks or months of lockdown to start off the new year, creating resolutions and setting new habits is the furthest thing from my mind. It is, however, probably the most important shift needed to create a positive path forward.

With the ongoing stress of not knowing if our business will survive continued closure, we must alter our focus towards improving our health habits to ensure we are physically and mentally prepared to face whatever is to come.

One of things I have really fought hard to hold onto during the 2020 closures is maintaining a good routine and clean eating. These will be my main goals to accomplish for 2021.

You have likely heard the expression “you can only control those things that are within your control.” I have accepted the fact that a global pandemic is outside of my control. However, my reaction is how I accept what is happening or not.

This year, I have decided to build better habits to support self-care and self-love and will work hard not to dwell on the things I have no control over, like the restrictions and closures imposed on the business due to the pandemic. These are within my control and will hopefully lead to improvements in other parts of my life.

It starts with designating a space in the home where you can meditate/exercise/find peace – whatever is needed at the time. We have recently cleared out a room in our home and turned it into the workout space. I understand that depending on your living situation, it isn’t possible for everyone to give up an entire room for this purpose. If you can’t dedicate an entire room, then create a corner where you can find peace and quiet, have space to move your body, and feel well.

You can make simple changes to the morning routine. Setting an early time to rise. For me it’s usually between 5 and 5:30 a.m. For you it might be 6:30 or 7. Whatever your usual wake-up time is, bring it forward by 30-60 minutes to have time to do some important morning stretches, meditation, or a quick 20-minute workout. If this is not your thing, spend this time journaling or sending messages of gratitude to those who impact your life in a positive way.

Starting the morning with a glass of water with a half to full freshly-squeezed lemon is not only hydrating, but also cleansing for the blood and alkalizing for the body. The lemon water is very good in helping to reduce inflammation for those dealing with arthritis pain.

Making good food choices is also helpful to keep the brain clear and focused and the body feeling energized. My family has decided to cut out grains and refined sugars for the new year, to reduce inflammation and digestive upset. Making food changes can be tough in the beginning, but once the body adjusts to the new way of being fueled, it won’t enjoy the old ways and will thank you by having a stronger immunity and ability to manage stress.

There are many things you can do to ensure the start of 2021 is better than the year we are leaving behind. The main thing to remember is you are in control of your destiny and even failure can just be a stepping stone to something greater. Accept the challenges of the year with an open heart and most importantly take the time to stretch, move your body, hydrate, sleep, fuel well, and find your joy. Wishing you all a joyful and prosperous 2021.

Reach Adrianne @monkeytreefitness on Facebook; #monkeytreefitnesswellness on Instagram or www.monkeytreewellness.com