It is without a doubt that the start of a New Year brings on thoughts of New Year's resolutions, a tradition known to many, a promise that is made to improve aspects of one's life throughout the year. But how often do these goals feature as part of the "Top 10 New Year's Resolution lists" including; exercise more, lose weight or learn a new skill and generally are forgotten toward the first week of February? 

How about we change our views on this completely and allow a chance to begin the year with a healthy mind-set and ways to improve your wellbeing over the course of 2021.

Here are a few ways that you can focus on your mental health and overall well-being from today:

Commit to Kinder Self-Talk

When last did you take a step back from your busy lifestyle and acknowledge the way your inner voice is speaking to you? We all know the voice that follows us on our daily expeditions, constantly narrating throughout the day and commenting on the happenings around us.

Naturally, our default tone of self-talk is critical and judgmental of our mistakes but stop and take a moment to recognize what is cluttering your thoughts. Instead, become your biggest cheerleader, reframe your thoughts to be kinder and more compassionate.

Practise Self-Care

It is so easy to focus your energy on those around you at the expense of your own needs but taking just a few minutes to replenish yourself can be highly beneficial to your own wellbeing. Start by planning time for yourself as often as possible. Just a few minutes of doing something that you love can help you recharge i.e. enjoy a relaxing bath, read a book, listen to your favourite music.

Self-Care Tip: Mowana Spa offers a Me Time Indulge Pamper Journey for this very purpose. Relax in the tranquil environment of the spa to relax, revive and rejuvenate. 

Practice a Morning & Evening Routine

For some, the thought of a strict routine can bring on fears that the pure repetition of tasks can become boring and obstructive. But here's the truth: routine is there to help us, not hinder us. Studies show that routine is essential for self-care, overall productivity and making time for things that matter. Set routines have shown to reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of anxiety. 

Take a Social Media break

Social media has boomed by connecting us in so many ways to the world around us – news, family and friends. However, with increased use, social media has the potential to have a negative effect on our mental health. As a way of kicking off the New Year, try logging out of your accounts and assess how this impacts your general mood, stress, anxiety levels and overall wellbeing. You may also find quality time to spend with friends and family or enjoy more of your leisure time without the need for continuous scrolling.

Did you know? Indaba Hotel features an impressive high speed WIFI connection to all its guests but has been restricted around Mowana Spa to aid your digital detox and take a "time out" from the hustle and bustle of the world around you.