Here we are, 5 days into 2023…how’s it going? Did you set resolutions, goals, or intentions? Are you still going to the gym or are you craving cookies yet; they are hard to resist! If you are still working on finalizing your goals for 2023 (you’re not alone in that!) let me encourage you to incorporate the 4 pillars of wellness (physical health - sex + relationships - spirituality - career + education). Here are some prompts to consider.

Physical Health

• Improve flexibility.

• Get tested for food sensitivities that cause inflammation.

• Consider taking supplements to support physical and mental health (e.g. omega’s, magnesium, turmeric).

• Replace worn out fitness equipment (e.g. worn shoes, tired exercise bands, the rotting bike tires).

Sex + relationships

• Establish or deepen communication with partner(s) about what turns you on and off sexually.

• Review the values of you as individuals and as partners to see how the align.

• Experiment with some kink play (e.g. light bondage, toys, role playing).

• Create open and ongoing dialogue about non-sexual intimacy satisfaction in all your relationships.

• Restore, create, or amend boundaries.

Spirituality

• Build routines that feed your soul.

• Volunteer, meditate, pray, journal.

• Get outside. Move, get sunshine.

• Call elders that you respect and learn from them.

Career + Education

• Build intentionality in performance goals, whether they are measured by your employer or you.

• Read some books for pleasure.

• Learn a new skill or hobby, take a class at the local community college or education center. (Urban gardening anyone?).

• Reflect on your career goals from 5th grade and where you are now. How did you get there? What’s different? What lessons can you pass onto others?

Looking ahead

I’ve been known to use cars as analogies when working with clients. Here’s another one. When we keep looking to the past we are looking in the rearview mirror. It’s small, it can be deceiving, and offers a limited view of what’s now behind us. But when we look to the future, through the windshield, we have a greater view of what’s ahead. We can maneuver our way through roadblocks, avoid construction zones, and enjoy the scenery along the way.

The same perspective applies to our wellness. When we keep looking backwards we may miss what’s in front of us. I encourage you continue looking ahead as you embrace your total wellness in 2023!

Be Well.

Sarah B.