Written by Cloud B. at Belmont Library
As the calendar flips to a New Year, many of us are tempted to make grand resolutions, promising to overhaul our lives overnight. However, history has shown us that these resolutions often fizzle out quickly. Instead of setting ourselves up for disappointment, why not focus on creating sustainable lifestyle changes that focus on improving mental, emotional and physical health?
Just Breathe
One of my own personal resolutions for the New Year is a daily meditation and breathing practice. The benefits of meditation are widely known, and studies have shown that incorporating a deep-breathing practice with meditation can further enhance those benefits. Some popular methods include diaphragmatic breathing, where you focus on expanding your belly rather than your chest. Box breathing involves inhaling, holding, exhaling and holding for equal counts, often four seconds each. San Mateo County Libraries offers patrons a free membership to the Calm app, which has hundreds of meditations available. There is also an online meditation workshop on Thursday, January 23, to help you bring in the New Year with a sense of relaxation and positivity.
A Vision Board: Your Roadmap to a New Lifestyle
A vision board is a visual representation of your goals and aspirations. It can serve as a powerful tool to inspire and motivate you on your journey to a new lifestyle. You'll need some poster board, magazines or online images, markers and glue. Define your goals and dreams and select images that resonate with them. Consider using images of people who inspire you, places you'd like to visit or objects that symbolize your aspirations. Arrange and glue the images to the board and write or print quotes that motivate and uplift you. You can also take an online class on Creativebug to get inspiration and learn how to create one. Learn how to access Creativebug for free with your library card.
Get Moving
You can now take Zumba classes at the Belmont Library on Sundays at 2:00 PM. The upbeat music and energetic movements can be incredibly mood-boosting, releasing endorphins that combat stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that regular exercise like Zumba can significantly reduce symptoms of depression. Furthermore, the social aspect of group classes provides a sense of community and belonging, combating feelings of loneliness and isolation. By combining fun with fitness, Zumba can be a powerful tool for improving overall mental well-being.
Prioritizing your health is an investment in yourself. Discover the resources your library offers to support your wellbeing in 2025, including these helpful reads:
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