It’s January 2017, which means for some, its the chance to make changes and live out some new dreams and aspirations.

We have all been guilty of promising ourselves the earth at the start of a new year and sadly when we set our heights too high, it’s no wonder we fail after just a few weeks.

Some of the goals I have set myself in a January have sometimes been extremely challenging but as I get older, I find it’s the little changes that I do that can make a much bigger impact.

2016 was a hell of a year for me mentally, physical and as I look back on every good bit and bad, I have listed some changes that I want to make in my life that may just benefit you too.

Surprisingly I’m not talking about the gym but health of our minds, body and soul.

I really pushed myself last year and after getting regular heart palpitations in September, I knew something had to change. I have recently had a spout of anxiety recently too so I want to make sure that 2017 is a more healthier year all round.

*Drink more water – It may sound stupid but nothing cleanses the body better.

*Walks/Runs – When I used to suffer from depression, I found that running totally helped me clear my mind and think more positively on life as a whole. I think walking can do the same thing and it also keeps your exercise levels up too. Maybe try regular walks with loved ones or friends as it’s proven to be a bonding experience too.

*Regular Massages – I tend to always carry stress and tension around on my shoulders. After having recently having regular massages, I am starting to have a lot less tension in my body and I feel the benefit hugely after a session. With regular visits to a spa, you will feel less bogged down and it will also rid any negative knots and strains that you may have in your body.

*Baths – I swear by them. If it’s been a stressful week at work, a bath for 30 mins can totally unwind the body and mind. Just make sure you stay off your phone too so you can completely switch off and unwind.

*Breathing exercises – Deep breathing for 2-3 minutes can really refocus your mind especially if you are angry. I find it helps steady my brain and it makes my thoughts clearer also when tensions are high.

*Early Nights – Exercise and weight loss can’t be achieved unless you are getting the right amount of sleep. It helps you be more productive at work and have more energy too so if you have light nights like me, try setting an alarm to make sure you get to bed when you need to.

I did get a little behind in my fitness routines in 2016 and after a few failed attempts to start up my running again, I have now set myself some goals for a more active new year. Trying to get fit can be a challenge for many so I hope these tips will help you also.

*Target – Set yourself a target like, ‘I will go to the gym 3 times this week’ or ‘I will at least run 3 miles this week’. Make sure these targets are realistic and easy for you to achieve. Once you have your target in hand then set yourself new goals along the way to build on your existing fitness. Maybe monitor and record your efforts too with some fitness apps so you can look back and see what you have achieved so far!

*’I can’t fit it in!’ – I know many people that have busy lives with kids, big careers and traveling say this about exercising all the time. If YouTube has taught us anything, it’s that even busy Mum’s can exercises at home by working out with their kids. So if they can do it, so can all of us. If you’re traveling, take your yoga mat with you and do some poses in your hotel room or the beach. If you have a busy career, go to the gym before work as this will make you more alert for the day and you can even train during your lunchtime or even run some of your journey home after work. It’s not, ‘I don’t have time’, it’s ‘make time’.

*Beginner – People that need to get fit always join a gym and within 6 weeks of joining have lost complete interest in going. If you need to improve your fitness, find an activity you enjoy. I think Yoga is great for those who need to loose weight and loosen up their joints too. By using a simple pose guide on yoga.com, you can do the positions in the comfort of your own home and if you do 30 mins everyday, you will notice a huge difference in just two weeks!

A new year is a great time to focus on your career. Whether you want to start working for yourself or want to feel passionate about where you work currently, here are some tips to keep you active and on the path to success.

*Do what makes you happy – I have always said this. If you do something you love, it won’t feel like a job and you will want to have more input and give more effort into your work. If you current job that doesn’t challenge you and inspire you, it might be time for a change.

* Talk to the boss – If you want to expand your role or grow in the company, talk to your employer. If they value your thoughts, they value you as a employee.

*Balance – If you have a job you love but give up a lot of your own time for work, make sure you get some time back for you as balancing personal life and career is key to remaining happy and healthy.

I hope some of these tips helps!  Just remember to do what makes you happy and set new goals so you can get the most out of your new year.