It’s a new year, and many of us are hoping for a better year than 2020. A lot of our new year’s resolutions look a bit different this year, and they may be a bit harder to commit to.
Many of us also don’t have the energy or conviction to put the same amount of effort into our goals due to fatigue and stress. Luckily, there are some fun ways you can build yourself up and focus on bettering yourself with friends this year!
Online Courses
Many colleges and sites are still offering free or discounted online courses. This was a popular way to spend time during the pandemic. Now, it is a great time to team up with others for accountability!
To make things even more fun, you can schedule study groups or discussion Zoom meetings to really reflect on what you are learning and share diverse opinions. Some of the places offering free online courses are Coursera, Harvard University, Skillshare, and edX. Coursera even offers a list of free online courses you can finish in a day! Note that if you want a certificate of completion, there often is a fee.
Virtual Workout Classes
It is pretty common for people to want to hit the gym more often for their new year’s resolution. As we continue to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances related to the pandemic, some things like staying active have been especially hard.
Luckily, a few solutions have been implemented to work around this, one being virtual workout classes! Teaming up with others to encourage each other can start a habit that will last far beyond these days at home. Many online programs have gained popularity, such as Yoga with Adriene if you are looking to increase your flexibility and balance.
If you want something fun to boost your mood and your heart rate, try a free online class video course like Move With Colour. There are also subscription-based services like All Out Studio, which gives you great workouts in different categories like no-equipment classes, strength-training, HIIT, and Pilates!
Social Self-Care
Working out, eating healthier, and learning something new are common goals we make at the beginning of a new year. However, this year is a bit different. Stress is high, there is a lot of emotional pressure on us, and taking on something new can seem overwhelming.
If things have been hard for you and those in your circle, consider setting up regular self-care nights. Break out the Zoom, facemasks, cocktails, and wine to kick back and put time specifically aside to decompress. There are many ways you can approach this; it completely depends on what will be the most healing for your group. Is having a spa-day what relaxes you the most? Then spend time every other week getting on a call with your nail polish and facemasks while you chat.
If that doesn’t sound appealing, try group meditation or group writing time with journaling or poetry.
While enjoying your new year’s resolutions with your circle, ensure you stay safe. To stay updated on the latest and most accurate information related to COVID-19, please refer to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
