Resetting in the New Year: A Holistic Approach to Feeling Your Best

Ah, the New Year! A time for fresh starts, new goals, and—let’s be real—recovering from all those holiday treats and late nights. Instead of diving into intense resolutions, why not focus on a holistic reset that leaves you feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the year ahead? From mindful breathing to pelvic floor health, here’s how to reset your body and mind with a healthy mix of movement, relaxation, and nutrition.

1. Breathe Like You Mean It (And Pay Attention to Your Pelvic Floor!)

You might be thinking, “Breathing? Isn’t that automatic?” But hear us out—breathing with intention is a game changer. Deep breathing helps calm your nervous system and boosts your mood, but it can also have a big impact on your pelvic floor health! When you breathe deeply into your rib cage and belly, you gently engage your diaphragm, which helps release tension in your pelvic floor. To make the most of this, try 360 breathing: inhale deeply through your nose, letting your lower rib cage and belly expand, then exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your abdominals engage slightly. This not only promotes relaxation but also supports pelvic floor function by encouraging gentle movement and release.

2. Move for Fun, Not Perfection

Exercise is not just about building strength—it's about creating balance in the body and promoting vitality. The real magic happens when you focus on moving your body in ways that feel good. Whether it’s a yoga flow, a light walk, or a dance party in your living room, aim for movement that leaves you feeling energized and happy. Consider incorporating practices like yoga or Pilates, which emphasize controlled movements, strengthening exercises, and breathwork. These exercises help release tension, improve posture, and enhance bone health in all stages of life.

3. Chill Out Your Nervous System

Life is stressful, and the holiday hustle can leave you a little frazzled. To reset your nervous system—and your pelvic floor—take time for relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, guided meditations, or even simple breathing exercises. When your nervous system is calm, your pelvic floor muscles also relax and function better. If you’re holding tension in your pelvic area, it can lead to discomfort or dysfunction in other areas as well, such as your back, neck, and jaw. So, whether you’re sitting in silence or enjoying a soothing bath, remember that relaxation benefits both your mind and body!

4. Eat Well, Feel Great

Your body is your temple, and the new year is the perfect time to treat it like one. Nourish it with a colorful array of whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Did you know that a healthy diet can also support your pelvic floor? Foods rich in fiber help prevent constipation, which can put unnecessary strain on the pelvic floor muscles. Hydration is also crucial—drink plenty of water to keep everything functioning smoothly.

5. Prioritize Rest and Recovery

Let’s face it, we all know how much better life is when we’ve had a solid night’s sleep. Prioritize rest by setting up a calming bedtime routine and aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Your body—and your pelvic floor—will thank you! Quality sleep and taking small breaks to yourself allow your body and nervous system to repair and rejuvenate.

Conclusion

This year, let’s make it all about the small, sustainable changes that help you feel good in both body and mind. By breathing deeply, moving joyfully, eating nourishing foods, and getting enough sleep, you’ll set yourself up for a healthy, balanced year ahead. Here’s to starting the year with intention, joy, and a whole lot of self-care. Cheers to a year of balance and vitality!