Old clothing. Old toys. Old books. We donate these in order to make room for the new. But what about our old ways of thinking?  Can we donate them? What do we need to drop in order to stay healthy?

Revisit: Take stock of what really makes us happy in the new year. Perhaps relationships need a tune up? Perhaps our health needs a boost? Where have we given to ourselves – or neglected ourselves recently? How can we give ourselves the room to grow? By revisiting areas of our lives, we can also revitalize them. Walking around the block can give us the mental space for new possibilities, plus it can help us release stress and lose weight.

Lose the Ruts: Have you been stuck in a rut lately? Now that 2011 is over, consider signing up for a class or doing something fun to promote your own wellness. Get involved with a cooking class, treat yourself to a massage, or learn about what whole foods your body enjoys. (Healthy Hint: Try adding as much color to your plate!)

Do It Now: Put the past behind you. It’s time to move on. Forget about what you’ve done or not done, and make this the year that change occurs in your life. For example, if you always put off having work done on the house or if this will be the second year that you’ve casually forgotten to go for your annual physical, make a change and make 2012 the year to put the old ways behind you, once and for all.

I Can’t: Self-defeating attitudes were for 2011. 2012 is all about following through with your health on all levels. If certain people are toxic to you, don’t be around them. If you need to loose twenty pounds, but don’t feel that you are able to do it alone, seek out the appropriate support. Make 2012 the year that you leave all the I Can’t’s in the backyard.

By Marissa Cohen

Picture By apdk