My Health and Wellbeing Goals for 2018

So when the New Year rolled in I decided to not make a huge list of definitive resolutions because often these resolutions can become a focus for failure when we don't achieve them. I do feel however that I need to address the fatigue and stress that became too much in the latter of last year. I know that improvements do need to be made although being a mother of two those changes need to be realistic with the long term in mind not just a quick fix, I did a post about 3 changes everyone should make and really just wanted to expand on that. So I wanted to focus on simple changes that will have a big impact and I know I can find time to fit into my busy life.


1. Staying Hydrated

Making sure you drink enough water seems simple enough but I know I let this slip-on occasions but this year I am aiming to really be on top of it. I now have a reusable water bottle I carry with me at all times meaning I have no excuse to not stay hydrated throughout the day. It's just such a simple thing to do and has such great health benefits such as improving your skin, aiding digesting and flushing out toxins, as they say water has always been the original "superfood".

2. Get more sleep

This one is harder said than done when I have a toddler who still won't sleep through the night but we are trying to find a resolution for that because it is having negative effects on my health and will do with anyone who doesn't get enough sleep for a continuous period of time. Besides working more on my sons night time routine I am also aiming to get to bed an hour earlier each day, this is a small change but really well made a big difference and I have to commit to it rather than be tempted by social media or watching TV.

3. Take Time Out as a family

Like most, I have a tendency to push myself even when exhausted and this can lead to feeling burnt out and this year I am working on knowing when to take time out and making sure we do it as a family. I also want to implement this into my daily life but finding 5-10minutes to be mindful practice some breathing techniques and reflect on the day and incorporate gentle yoga alongside the breathing. Yoga is also a great activity to do with kids, in fact, I wrote about it for Day out With Kids if you're looking for some inspiration for new things to do as a family. Together we also want to do a screen-free day out, most likely on the weekend, where we can just enjoy being together with no distractions.

4.  Look after my eyes

Last year I was suffering from headaches, I had to strain my eyes all the time, especially at the end of the day so I booked myself in for an eye test and it turned out I needed prescription lenses and it's made me realise how important it is to maintain your eyesight and give me eyes rest when needed. On occasions I have suffered from dry eyes, so making sure to use eye drops when this happens to sooth this condition which can at times become quite painful, if you struggle with this as well Vision Direct has a great tutorial on using eye drops. If your having issues with your eyes no matter how small I do recommend going to your local Optimist and having them checked out.

5. Socialise more

Between work, kids, school runs, food shops and everything else it can be hard to find time to just socialise and connect with friends. I am a natural worker so I often put my family and my work before anything else but I do know how important maintaining friendships are and it's something I want to focus on this year. Making time for catching up over a cup of coffee or seeing a movie, friends over diversity to the normal routine and research has shown that friendships make you feel happier as well as more mentally and physically stronger to face the world.

I do feel any of these are not achievable even for the busiest of people and I always think small changes over a duration of time often have the biggest impact in the long run. What are your health and wellbeing goals for this year?

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