[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.7″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]

This New Years’ Eve we’ll veer from our traditional celebration with friends and other ballroom dancers at The American Legion. Instead, we are celebrating 2021 with a special meal and a toast to new beginnings, as well as a toast of good riddance to 2020! As a former New Yorker, we will watch the ball drop in Times Square, kiss and dream of a healthy, prosperous New Year.

That is my wish for you all!

This year, it is time to put “you” first by adopting the mindset, “new year, new you.”  By starting off the year with a healthier mind and body you will feel awesome and psyched to make 2021 the best year ever! So, try these ten strategies to help squeeze in some self-care and simplify your life.

1. Wear Stylish Work Out Clothes That Work for You
Purchase workout outfits that flatter your body. Studies at Rice University show that what we wear affects the way we feel, which then impacts our ability to get things done.  This phenomenon is known as “enclothed cognition,” and it holds true in Zumba class as well as at work
2. Eliminate What You Do Not Wear
One simple way to discover what you never wear is using “a hanger system”. Start each year with all the hangers in your closet facing the same direction. Each time you wear something, flip that hanger around. When you get to the end of the year and the hanger remains in its original position, it means you have not worn it in a year; so let it go!   Clear the excess from your closet to make getting dressed easier.
3. Donate Your Old Clothes
Keeping smaller clothes as motivation to slim down does not work and tends to backfire, according to a psychologist at Golden Gate University.  Focusing on being healthy is more beneficial than muffin-top shaming.
4. Try a New Hairdo
Allow an expert to design a new hairstyle for you that flatters your features and is easy to maintain. Even a simple new style, trimming a few inches, or hair color will be uplifting and put pep back into your step!
5. Splash and Diffuse
Splashing on a little of your favorite perfume will enhance your mood. Even if no one else is around to smell it, it makes a difference in how you feel.  Smell is associated with the parts of the brain that process emotion and store memories with certain aromas affecting mood.  For example, vanilla makes people more relaxed and joyful, peppermint boosts energy, and lavender zaps stress. Why not lift your spirits by diffusing an essential oil!
6. Conquer the Chaos
You just received piles of new gifts for the holidays and realized your lack of storage.  Tackle each area of the house one at a time. Organize, clean, and release the old to make room for the new!
7. Practice a Skincare Routine
Streamline your daily routine with products that really replenish your skin, instead of focusing on covering up.  Baring all can really feel good!
8. Give Yourself a New Look
Consult with a cosmetologist or stylist to learn new makeup techniques to enhance your features. Try a new lipstick color; be bold and wear red! Wearing makeup makes a difference and lets you shine in this virtual world.
9. Shop Post Holiday Sales
There are bargains galore in after-Christmas sales.  Waste no time depleting those holiday gift cards, because the early bird catches the best selection. This is the best time to purchase a new winter coat and boots, since there is a lot of winter left in most of the country.
10. Compliment Yourself
Use sticky notes to post affirmations such as, “Today is my day”. “I’m thankful for me”. Positive self-talk focuses on what’s good in your life. Filling your life with positives after all the negative makes you feel happier and it’s a great way to kick off the New Year!

Now is time to leave 2020 behind and step into 2021 with style.  What are your plans to practice self-care and simplify your life to make this your best year ever?

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]