Six ways to start fresh in 2021

While many aim to enhance their tired routines at the start of any new year with a shiny set of resolutions, it seems more applicable than ever as we enter 2021. Get rid of the bad habits or mindset you may have developed over past lockdowns with these six invigorating ideas that can be gradually incorporated into one’s life.

1. Meditation

Though meditation is a word often included in lists to begin anew and solidify beneficial habits, it still seems to be overlooked or misunderstood. The flexible activity can seamlessly fit into anyone’s routine and can vastly improve one’s mindset. A great way to get started is with the Headspace app. Available in most digital stores, the free version is an easy way to become acquainted with the practice. If one is still not too sure about meditation, Headspace recently released a Netflix series to help audiences become familiar with the uplifting results of its daily implementation. 

2. Saving money

Initially, for many people, working from home and – with restaurants closed – not going out for dinner meant a significant opportunity to save money. However, we all know what happened: online spending exploded. All kind of shopping – from fashion to grocery – played a part in this, but, fear not, websites like voucherbox gives an opportunity to spend less for exactly the same thing. As opposed to retail shopping, buying from a website allows to use codes to apply a discount and make each transaction cheaper.

The pandemic also gave people new opportunities for their money to work for them through different investment asset classes. After the 30^th 2020 downturn, the stock market soared to new heights. Alternate investment classes like digital currency also saw significant gains. It’s possible to see it from this historical cryptocurrency price list that digital currency values skyrocketed after November 2020. These trends have continued, which gives people an opportunity to invest and allow their money to work for them.

3. Ditch coffee

Coffee can be a lifesaver, but for some, it can make one feel even groggier, less productive and more jittery than before their first sip. By trying alternatives, one can still receive an energy boost in the morning without these potential negative effects. Golden milk, for instance – a traditional Indian drink – is a non-caffeinated beverage composed of comforting ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and black pepper. Other hot drinks include matcha or green tea. Both options contain not only caffeine but also an amino acid called L-theanine which relaxes the mind without unpleasant drowsiness.

4. Yoga

Yoga can be described as a moving meditation. For those looking for a new workout routine or who have been interested in the practice but not known where to begin, there are countless guided videos on Youtube to ease anyone into the activity. The most popular online teacher is Adriene Mischler, the star of the Yoga with Adriene channel which is subscribed to by over 9 million users. With her overarching mission to “find what feels good”, each January she invites everyone to join her on a 30-day journey that includes a new, unique flow every day of the month. The Texan teacher is the perfect at-home teacher for beginners and advanced yogis alike. 

5. Develop a new creative hobby

Although most activities remain digital for the time being, it’s still important to put time into past hobbies and budding interests. Become an amateur painter by delving into the world of Bob Ross – the complete series can be found on YouTube – and learning how to embrace “happy accidents” while colouring a canvas. If you’ve had the beginnings of a short story in your phone’s notes section for months but can’t seem to write the first scene, try an online fiction course with The Open University. Including creative outlets regularly in one’s routine can help promote a more positive, rewarding mindset in the long run. 

6. Experiment with new foods

Instead of falling into a detrimental cycle of yo-yo dieting this year, why not change up your meal plan with refreshed choices to reignite – or spark – a joy of cooking? By experimenting with cuisines from cultures different from one’s own, anyone can become acquainted with new spices and methods to rejuvenate their old recipes. Likewise, one can buy produce from farmer’s markets and local retailers to support small businesses, while also enjoying the fresh taste of their regional cuisine. Rather than cutting out indulgent foods entirely, try cooking more homemade meals made from simple, crisp ingredients. 

The editorial unit