Considering how 2020 shaped up, we understand if you’re approaching 2021 with cautious optimism. We’re not here to recap. We were all there, we all know what happened. But it’s a new year! And that’s left a lot of us asking ourselves: now what? While your New Year’s celebrations and resolutions might look a little different this time around, there are still plenty of ways to make sure 2021 is your best year yet. In the new year, wellness looks like self-care, less stress, and staying connected.
Put your health first
One of the pandemic’s rare silver linings? It forced the world to take a long hard look at fitness, nutrition, and wellness practices. And without our busy schedules and full social calendars, many of us found more time to take care of ourselves.
This is one thing we should all aspire to carry with us into 2021. Whether you’re just getting into the swing of your routine, you’re exploring new modes of movement, or you’re an old pro, 2021 is the year to get creative with your fitness. Shake things up with virtual classes. Download a new fitness tracker app, or create a Zoom group to stay socially distanced while still getting the benefits of working out with your friends.
However you decide to move, make sure you’re backing it up with the right nutritional habits. The Earthbar is currently open 7 days a week (hours vary) to help you fuel up and stay energized.
Don’t forget to destress
When we’re stressed, our immune systems take a hit. This is why, according to Psychology Today, relaxation practices like yoga and meditation are more important than ever before.
Dr. Sherry Hamby writes, “People who practice yoga experience less anxiety, less depression, and fewer symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Yoga also improves wellbeing, including increased gratitude, compassion, relatedness, acceptance, centeredness, empowerment, self-esteem, compassion, self-awareness, and hope.”
Similarly, meditation is an excellent tool for managing stress and soothing the central nervous system. Just a few minutes every day can promote relaxation and support tranquility. That’s why one of our top New Year wellness tips is finding a few ways to unwind.
Find ways to engage in your community
Between social distancing, working from home, and mandatory lockdowns, it’s no wonder that many of us felt disconnected from our communities in 2020. Compound that with “Zoom fatigue” and you’ve got a perfect isolation storm.
We’ve always been community builders. But, now more than ever, we recognize the importance of connection. To help support our members, we’re operating at extended hours. So, whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, we’ll be open and here for you.
Happy New Year, from your friends at Santa Barbara Athletic Club
Whether you’re ready to claim 2021 as your year or you’re stepping cautiously into the new year, we’re with you. Because you might join other clubs, but you belong here.
We hope to see you soon!