You know what they say… new year, new you! I think it’s safe to say that none of us are going to miss 2020 when it’s over and we’re all hopeful for bigger and better things next year. And in the spirit of making resolutions to better yourself in the coming days, we thought we may give you a few ideas on how to get started and become the best version of you for 2021. We’re aiming for less stress, more relaxation, more healthy choices, and a more positive outlook after the year we’ve all managed to endure and conquer together.

Below are some tips that may be perfect for you or will inspire you to find what fits you best so that 2021 is YOUR year! Check it out...

Start that fitness routine…. and stick to it this time!

While many of us have felt stressed or anxious during this tribulating year, exercise can help raise your spirits and self-image. Because Cortisol moves rapidly through the body when it feels heightened stress, Endorphins, or the naturally occurring ‘feel good’ chemical, are an excellent way to take off the edge. Endorphins are increased during physical activity so it easily combats the chemicals that can negatively affect you physically and mentally. And while reducing stress is invaluable to most of us, self-image is improved as well as you maintain your fitness regime throughout 2021. Some people thrive with a set schedule while others prefer taking it day by day but for stress relief purposes, it may benefit you to create a fitness schedule that fits you and your needs so you can more easily stick to your new routine!

Drink water – 2021 is not the year for dehydration!

You’d be amazed at how little water many of us consume every day in comparison to other beverages on the market. Our bodies are composed of approximately 60% water so to say hydration is important would be an understatement. When you become dehydrated, your body can no longer regulate its temperature, especially in hot environments. Because of this, you can become more susceptible to muscle cramps and migraines… the opposite of what we want in 2021. Stay vigilant and drink your suggested 64 ounces of water a day!

Get a good night’s sleep every night!

We’ve all been there – tossing, turning, and a mind that just won’t turn off. Sleep is vital to our minds and bodies for simple functionality but can affect things as small as memory consolidation over time. The average adult requires 8 hours of sleep a night and to feel well-rested, you must reach the deepest level of sleep: REM sleep. Just like you would at school or work, having a sleep schedule can regulate your body and have it prepared for sleep when it’s time. To help relax you, try activities that calm the mind and body before bed. Many feel reading a book, listening to calming music, or massage therapy helps relax the body physically and mentally and allows you drift off to sleep better than if you watched TV and drank a soda right before your bed time. And with that being said, strongly consider avoiding caffeinated beverages before bed regardless because the last thing you want is a racing mind as you try to wind down for the night.  

Get some YOU time – Read a book!

Many of us have hectic lives that we are constantly juggling and don’t take the necessary time to unwind when we’re done for the day. An act as simple as reading a book can set your mind at ease and relax you for the night causing a more restful sleep in turn. Because there are so many genres and story lines to draw you in, there’s no excuse for not taking a few minutes to mentally prepare you for the day or for a good night’s sleep. And if you think reading just isn’t for you, try other techniques for relaxation so that your body isn’t always on-the-go.

Get social…. Safely

It’s no secret that human companionship makes a world of difference in times of heightened stress or anxiety. A good friend allows you to vent about everyday stressors that you may otherwise internalize. Friends and family should have your best interest at heart and are there for you when you need them most. Don’t hesitate to reach out because chances are good, they need a good friend too. And for those working from home, evolving from everyday banter to working solo at home can be a tough transition and ultimately feels a bit isolating. To keep those connections alive, talk to your coworkers, even if it isn’t a work-related matter. Chances are good they’re feeling just as stir-crazy as you are. In 2021, we encourage you to get social and chat with those friends you haven’t seen in a while… for your sake and theirs!

Get a massage... it's worth it!

One of the best ways to relax and unwind is to literally unwind those tense, knotted muscles you may be experiencing. While many of us feel tension building while working from home or just by having strenuous careers anyway, stacking additional stress and anxiety on top of our already hectic lifestyles can start to wear on us. To relieve tension headaches, or headaches that have a squeezing sensation like a band around the head, find massages that can fixate on the muscles at the base of the head and the shoulders. Swedish massages are great for beginners and can relieve muscle tension throughout the entire body without the use of too much force. This may be a great option for those uncertain about the effectiveness of massage therapy. You can always try deeper tissue massages later if you like the aftereffects of a full body massage. You can also try trigger point massagers that release muscle tension by using targeted pressure on trigger points throughout the body. Using 30-40 seconds of consistent pressure on painful, knotted areas can cause a muscle release and less tension in that muscle area. These can be used in the comfort of your own home and don’t require much energy for a quick tension release.

 We recommend....

Body Back Buddy Elite- Our new and improved fan favorite! This tool targets trigger points to alleviate pain caused by tension knots in the muscles. Steady pressure for 30-45 seconds can cause a noticeable healing release that can improve mobility for certain muscle groups on the body.

Wooden Back Roller – Another excellent manual tool, the Wooden Back Roller acts much like the Power Peanut in that it can target areas with direct pressure to reduce muscle tension. In contrast, this tool uses practices closer to trigger-point therapy rather than vibrational and can be used by rolling the tool along the sore areas on the body.

Vibe 2.0 – A tool that packs a powerful punch. This device can be used alone but in cases of sciatica pain, you may need a partner that can move the tool along your lower back, buttocks, and hamstrings to target the muscle tension causing your discomfort.