So . . . How's the New Year Going So Far?
[I’m already off to a slow start as I am a week late getting this out to you. It was written last week, but the second week of the new year hit me like a brick, so here we are… let’s pretend I made it on time]
So, how are we doing on our first full week in our new year?
I’m not going to lie, I felt like this week - getting back to routine - was loooong and a bit brutal.
I’ve told a few folks, and shared with class this week, that this year is different than my past years of bringing in the new year. I’m typically one of those (slightly annoying) folks that love the new start, the reset and clean slate of a New Year. I make lists, pick a word for the upcoming year, set intentions and write out goals or projects to tackle But this year, I am taking a much slower approach.
I’m basically wading into 2026 like it’s a pool of water. Putting a toe in to test the temperature, getting used to it and then carefully move in.
The real change I see is that I am absolutely okay with this slow entry. I’m not beating myself up for not falling back to my old ways and have no guilt over the fact that I am not going gung ho on new ways to be better, do better and feel better.
I think this has everything to do with the fact that I do have a better mindset and know how to reframe what may not have worked, or what could have been different. I felt pretty darn good as the year came to a close. I was actually comfortable with my days, schedule and health and fitness progress. I also think this all boils down to finally learning to forget about perfection, and simply make the steps that it takes to be consistent. I could say SO MUCH more about this. It is definitely something I wish my 30 year old self and realized.
One of the health based practices I want to continue (and elaborate on) in 2026 is walking. I have been mostly consistent with making walks a part of my days and weeks, but there is always room for improvement! I confess, I have had many days and weeks when I look at my step count at the end of hte day and it is embarrassingly low. Those days are the ones full of desk work, driving and sitting and just make it almost imipossible to get that magical number of 10,000 in.
Ways to make our weekly walks non-negotiable. . .
Make a 10-minute Rule for Yourself
What do I mean? I mean see if you can implement 10 minutes a day to take a break to walk. I’m thinking this can be one of the very BEST small moves to add and put in the consistency bucket. I will be honest, on those days that my step count is embarrassingly low, and I can sneak in even a 10-minute walk to my neighbor’s driveway or around the office, then I know I’ve done at least one good thing for myself. Plus, it always clears my head which is always needed AND gives me a energy and mood boost.
[This one save me this week. Remember, it it me like a brick? So there were days when that shorter walk had to do.]
Put a Weekly Walk with a Friend on your Calendar
This is one of the best ways to catch up with your people. And get your steps in. What a good multitask. I don’t think I need to even elaborate on all the good benefits.
Make a Non-Distracted Walk
To be honest, this one is a challenge for me, which is why I know I need to add at least one walk without my headspace being filled with noise, the podcasts, the books, the music or even a phone call. After a few of these quiet walks, some days I crave a little time outdoors to walk without an earbud in my ear. If this sounds completely brutal to you, just give it a try. You may be amazed at how much more you notice, you seem to actually see what is around, and also hear the sounds of the birds, dogs barking, the wind, and even the quiet - so you actually hear yourself think (as the saying goes). While some folks solve problems and come up with all their ideas in the shower, the new time could be your device free walk!
Try a Japanese Walk
Do you know what this is? This is basically your good interval fitness walk. For those folks who do not consider walking as part of the fitness routine (shame on you!) This is a cool way to add a challenge to your walks, get your heart rate up! I’m showing my age here but think Billy Crystal speed walking in “When Harry Met Sally”. If you are feeling stale in your walks, looking for something new, or a challenge, here it is.
Take along your Book
This, of course, is the opposite of a Non-Distracted Walk, but oftentimes a good book will keep you going. I love a good book walk! I used to use Audible, but let that go when I found Libby, the free county library app. Also, I use Spotify, so also listen through that app. My latest walking book was The Correspondent which is wildly popular right now. It was a really good book to listen to as there were so many diverse characters, and to listen to the different accents, dialect and the inflections in the readers’ voices, was lovely.
I’m always looking for good book recommendations so would love your feedback! I have loved seeing so many folks on social media with “read more in 2026” as goals and seeing book shares.
Speaking of books, if you are looking for something to pick up daily or weekly or whenever you want a little pick me up, I highly recommend Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach. It is a lovely book with daily inspiration that leaves you feeling lighter, more present and inspired to find more joy in the simple and mundane days.
Back to walking. . .
I read recently that a 12 minute walk with a friend actually rewires your brain - bringing a better mood, less stress, lower cortisol and more connection.
Your brain responds to movement by releasing endorphins. Physical activity can also increase brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) a protein that supports nerve cell growth and memory. It is actually science backed. So I think it’s definitely worth making Frend Walks part of your new year.
Enjoy this Short Week! Bundle up and stay warm!
