Developing a love for exercise is a gradual process; my client took a year to eagerly anticipate workouts. Positive life changes, particularly in health, demand more time than expected. To sustain a heart-healthy lifestyle, altering your attitude towards exercise is crucial. Initially, it might feel like a slow journey, but eventually, you’ll find fulfillment in workouts. Shifting your perspective transforms exercise from a chore to a source of joy. Embrace the gradual revelation that a life without exercise feels incomplete, and you’ll understand the enthusiasm of those dedicated to fitness.

1) Practice Meditation or Mindfulness: Prioritize mental well-being by incorporating mindfulness, meditation, or a moment for self-appreciation into your daily routine. 2) Physical Activity: Join a gym, go for a walk, practice yoga, play sports, or have your own dance party at home. Exercise is a powerful form of self-care. 3) Spend Time with the People you Enjoy: Positive relationships contribute to overall well-being. Surround yourself with those who uplift you. 4) Eat Nourishing Foods: Nourish your body with nutritious foods. 5) Get Adequate Sleep: Establish healthy sleep habits, as quality sleep is essential for overall well-being. 6) Cultivate Creativity: Engage in creative pursuits like drawing, adult coloring books, painting, poetry, cooking, or singing. Creative expression is therapeutic and fulfilling. 7) Explore your Cultural Identity: A strong cultural connection not only boosts mental health resilience but also improves social well-being and coping skills.

Moose Jaw Family Services Inc.,
200 Main Street S. Moose Jaw SK, S6H 5S7
Phone: 306-694-8133
Website: www.mjfamilyservices.ca
Email: contact@mjfamilyservices.ca
Donate: donations can be made online to donations@mjfamilyservices.ca
This Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® edition is sponsored by WellBRAND Marketing in support of the Moose Jaw Family Services Inc.

If you are someone considering a new goal or change this January, here are some tips for creating healthier resolutions:
Positive Impacts:
1. Motivation: Resolutions can serve as powerful motivators, inspiring us to make positive changes in our lives.
2. Sense of Purpose: Setting goals can give us a sense of direction and purpose; contributing to overall well-being.
3. Personal Growth: Resolutions often involve personal development and growth, which can boost self-esteem and confidence.
4. Routine and Structure: Working towards resolutions can bring structure and routine into daily life, providing a sense of stability.

• Unrealistic Expectations: Setting overly ambitious goals can lead to frustration and disappointment. It’s important to set realistic and achievable objectives.
Tip: Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate small victories along the way. It’s the small steps that take you where you want to go.
• All-or-Nothing Thinking: Some of us may adopt an “all-or-nothing” mentality, viewing any deviation from our resolution as a failure.
Tip: Embrace flexibility. Understand that setbacks are a normal part of any journey, and it’s okay to adjust your goals as needed. If last week you were reading zero nights a week before bed and this week you read once, that’s still one more time than last week! It’s still a step in the direction you want to go.
• Pressure and Stress: The pressure to meet New Year’s resolutions can cause stress, especially if progress is slow or unexpected obstacles arise.
Tip: Focus on the process rather than the outcome. Celebrate the effort you put into your goals, and be kind to yourself if things don’t go as planned.
• Comparison with Others: Comparing your progress to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and negatively impact how we feel about ourselves.
Tip: Remember that everyone is on their own journey. Focus on your personal growth, you are doing this for you! Don’t forget to love yourself along the way.
• Lack of Support: Pursuing resolutions without a support system can be challenging.
Tip: Share your goals with friends or family who can provide encouragement and accountability. Consider joining online communities or seeking professional support.
Ultimately, the key is to approach New Year’s resolutions with a balanced and compassionate mindset. Reflect on what truly matters to you, set realistic goals, and prioritize your mental well-being throughout the journey. If difficulties persist, seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals is essential.

can have both positive and potentially challenging effects on mental health. While setting goals and resolutions can provide motivation and a sense of purpose, unrealistic expectations or a lack of progress can contribute to stress and negative feelings. As we enter 2024, remember new beginnings can happen anytime! Setting a new goal or wanting to make a change is valid any time of the year. Creating a resolution should not feel pressured or forced. You are the expert on your own growth. For some of us, the January and February months can be some of the most difficult. So be kind to yourself and trust in what feels right for you.

The sound of a kitten purring truly warms your heart. The soft gentle “rumble” is a soothing and enjoyable experience that will literally have a therapeutic effect on your body. The vibrations of a kitten purring promote relaxation, reduces stress, and even assists in the healing of an injury. Snuggling up with a warm cuddly kitten is a delightful way to take a moment out of a busy day plus enjoy the health benefits of stopping and taking a breath. Interested in adopting? Go to www.mjhs.ca for more information.