2025 New Year Resolution

It took me too long to realize that one's health, both physical and mental, is the most critical asset in life. Stress, I've learned, is the ultimate enemy of well-being. Without good health, you can't work hard or enjoy life's pleasures. So, as we approach the time for New Year's resolutions, here is my commitment for 2025:

I plan to hug myself every day. Yes, you read that correctly. Each day, I'll embrace myself in various ways. Self-hugging can strengthen muscles, increase mobility, reduce stress, and promote gratitude and mindfulness—key ingredients for success, according to numerous articles I've found inspiring. I encourage all of you to try it and share your experiences!

The Power of Physical Touch

Physical touch is essential for both psychological and physiological well-being. Research indicates that physical contact, including self-hugs, helps reduce stress, alleviate pain, and boost feelings of happiness and security. When we hug ourselves, it's more than a simple squeeze; it's a reminder that we deserve care and love.

Daily Self-Hugs Options

Let’s explore some ways you can incorporate self-hugs into your daily routine:

Standing Hugs

1. Hug your arm: Bring your arm across your chest and squeeze gently with affection.

2. Hug your back: Reach your hands behind your back. If you struggle to clasp your hands, hold a towel between them for assistance.

3. Hug your knee: Maintain good balance with a straight back, embracing your knee for a solid squeeze, which also strengthens your ankles.

4. Hug your legs: Relax your back and rotate your hips. If this is challenging, try hugging one leg at a time with slightly spread legs.

Chair Sitting Hugs

1. Hug your knee: Sit up straight, place the foot of the bent leg on the chair, and pull your knee toward your torso.

2. Hug your thigh: Feel your glutes engage by bringing your thigh toward your body without bending forward.

3. Hug your shin: Lean forward to embrace your shin. Go lower to hug the other shin if your body lets you.

4. Hug your legs: Bend forward to touch your head to your knees and reach your hands toward the floor.

 

Floor Hugs

1. Hug one foot: Bring your head towards your foot while keeping your back straight.

2. Hug both feet: If this is difficult for you, sit with bent knees, hug your feet, then scoot back to try to straighten your legs.

3. Hug your knee: Similar to the standing version but easier since you don’t need to balance.

4. Hug both knees: Give a final squeeze to feel the stretch in your back.

5. Hug your thigh: Draw your thigh in slowly and exhale deeply.

Conclusion

As we step into the new year, let's focus on resolutions that enhance our well-being and resilience. By literally embracing ourselves, we combat stress and cultivate a loving relationship with the most important person in our lives—ourselves.

Call to Action

Join me on this self-care journey and share your self-hug experiences or photos. Let’s make 2025 a healthier, happier year!

If you want something, just get it yourself. Don't wait for someone to get it for your birthday or Christmas. It aren't gonna happen.

P.S. Remember, the easiest way to keep up with my journey is by visiting blog.lannyland.com