Feed Your Body, Mind, & Soul in 2023

Yesterday was Chinese New Year. It is the year of the Water Rabbit. I hold this sign very closely as it was the sign I was born under. Now as you rush to figure out my age, let’s have some fun. Though I’m not sure of the actual year in Chinese terms I am sure of the year in American terms. Though many are embracing a myriad of things to make them better and healthier in 2023, what if we embraced ideas that feed our mind, body, and soul for the entire year not just in January when we feel we need to make these BIG changes for the New Year.

Here’s a list of ideas to nurture yourself with, and remember though I’ve used the number 23 there is no need to watch the clock. The idea is to feed you mind, body, and soul every minute, every day, every week of the next year.

The year of the water rabbit is a gentle year so be kind to yourself, get outside, and enjoy each every day.

• Devote 23 minutes (or more!) to a movement practice every day. You’ll start to see a difference by the end of the month. My preference is Qigong.

• Walk away from your computer every 23 (or so) minutes for an eye and brain break.

• Spend 23 minutes (or more!) walking outside, breathing in the fresh air. Nature is healing and rejuvenating!

• Get lost in a book for 23 minutes (or more!) every day.

• Write a list of your 23+ best attributes.

• Keep a list of one nice thing that happens to you every day for 23 days, 23 weeks, or the whole year. Even if you have a particularly tough day, look for the good, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. Reread your list whenever you need a pick-me-up.

• Find 23+ ways to be kind. This could be as simple as smiling at a neighbor, helping a family member with a problem, or giving yourself a compliment. Yes, you deserve your kindness, too!

• Focus on the little moments this year. (They’re bound to add up to at least 23!) Slow down and take the time to truly see the moments that are so easy to miss. How many can you count, savor, and honor over a 23 day period? Can you extend it beyond 23 days?