New year’s resolutions are a funny thing. We all make them but how long do they actually last? For the vast majority of us, they’ve already been abandoned by the middle of February. Good habits, especially those that are quite different from our current lifestyle are difficult to form. They require absolute commitment, time, energy and even some finance. On average, it can take around 2 months for a habit to become embedded in our sub-conscious especially if it’s a major lifestyle change. For something less drastic, like drinking a glass of water in the morning, it may take less time of course.

How to Form a New Habit

Behaviour is largely driven by the desire to solve a problem. For example, the cue might be that your alarm goes off in the morning. The craving is that you want to feel awake, so your solution is to drink a large mug of coffee. The reward is that you indeed feel more alert. Over time, your brain associates coffee with feeling awake. Carry out an audit on your current habits and identify those you’d like to change.

Be under no illusion that changing a habit may not be quick. It’s going to take a lot of internal discipline and let’s face it, repetition. Don’t beat yourself up if you have a lapse though. For sure, there will be lumps and bumps in the road. Dust yourself down and pick up where you left off. Have the faith that by constantly repeating that behaviour, it will become easier in the longer-term.

For more information on how to change habits, check out our other blogs: How Long Does it Really Take to Form a Habit and The Power of Forming Positive Habits on our Wellbeing.

2021 New Year Wellbeing Resolutions to Live By

In need of some inspiration? Here’s some ideas to get you started.

 

1. Take Up Yoga

It’s the practise that unifies the body and mind, improves posture and increases strength, and flexibility. The good news is that it’s extremely accessible, you can find a class to join or even do it online from the comfort of your home. Get yourself a non-slip mat and off you go! Try Yogi Bare’s Non-Slip Paw’s Mat for extra grip.

 

2. Have a Bed-time Routine

Create a bed-time ritual which signals to your brain that it’s time to unwind. You might include an aromatherapy candle, a soothing bath or a chamomile tea. Just be sure to turn devices off an hour before bedtime. Use our Sleep Well Aromatherapy Balm or Sleep Well Aromatherapy Candle as part of your evening routine to help you wind down. 

 

3. Write a Journal

Research has shown that journaling is a fantastic tool to help clear the mind, organise thoughts and promote wellbeing. It can also help you to release negative thoughts, or spot negative thought patterns, so actively helps reduce stress and anxiety. Be sure to include a gratitude diary, happy moments and daily goals. 

 

4. Use Sustainable Products

Be aware of the world around us. Doing our bit, can increase our sense of community and make us feel more fulfilled and happier. Commit to using sustainable products where possible. Here at Scentered, this is a theme close to our heart. All of our Scentered packaging has been carefully designed and considered so that it can be repurposed, reused or recycled. Read more about how we’re doing our bit for the environment.

 

5. Exercise More

No resolution list worth its salt would leave out exercise. Traditionally, it's one of the hardest habits to form. That’s why the gyms are full in January and dead by March. Set expectations that are realistic. 10 minutes of exercise a day is better than no exercise. Do what you enjoy. You don’t have to become a Peloton, marathon running exercise fanatic overnight!

6. Think Like A Monk

No seriously, think like a monk! Invest in a great self-help book to challenge your current ways of thinking. We love Jay Shetty’s ‘Think Like a Monk’, where he shares his learnings from his time as a monk in India. Did you know that scientific research has proven that the world’s happiest man is a monk? It’s largely down to their regular meditation and the mindset about serving others.

 

7. Swap Coffee for Scentered Wellbeing Ritual Aromatherapy Focus Balm

Meet your new best friend, Focus Wellbeing Ritual Aromatherapy Balm. We promise it’s better than coffee. Prepare for the day ahead with this invigorating blend. A potent mix of Rosemary, Mint and Clary Sage will help direct your mind and boost concentration. 

 

8. Get 8 Hours of Sleep

Distractions, like work, television and social media often prevent us from getting that all-important shuteye. Lack of sleep will be visible in your skin, productivity and mood. If you do one thing this year, focus on getting 8 hours of sleep daily. It has countless health and wellbeing benefits. For light’s out time, count back 8 hours from the time you need to get up.