The Countdown to 2026🎇
As 2025 comes to an end, many of us look ahead to the new year and the goals we’d like to set. While some jump straight into making big New Year’s resolutions, it can be equally valuable to focus on improving the small everyday habits that make us feel our best but can easily slip out of routine. Often, these actions are not only easier to maintain but can make the biggest difference to our well-being over time.
Why Set Goals For The New Year?📆
The start of a new year is a natural pause point and chance to reflect. Setting goals doesn’t have to be stressful, it’s simply a way to gain clarity about areas you’d like to improve. This reflection can help set a positive tone for the year ahead and help create a routine that lasts.
Below are simple, realistic steps to help you move into the new year feeling grounded and refreshed, helping to bring in a healthier 2026.
Hit Your Hydration Goals💧
Hydration is a simple but often forgotten way to support your wellbeing and immune system, and a PureGym Fitness Report found Brits drink only about half the recommended daily water - making rehydration especially important after a busy, alcohol- and caffeine-filled season.giving your body the chance to rehydrate is particularly important.
- Keep water visible and within reach. A BRITA Glass Jug on the counter can act as a reminder to top up throughout the day, and keeping a reusable bottle in your bag makes it easier to drink on the go.
- Set small hydration reminders on your phone so you naturally build the habit into your day - the NHS recommends people should aim to drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day and reminders can help you stay on track.
- Choose filtered water to make hydration more enjoyable.
Exercise Regularly In A Way That Works For You🏃♀️
Exercise doesn’t need to be intense or complicated to make you feel your best. Gentle, consistent movement can boost your energy, mood, and overall health. It is recommended that adults between the age of 19-64 should do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week - finding movement you genuinely enjoy and can integrate into your routine easily is key!
- Take a daily walk, have a gentle stretch, or follow a short home workout to incorporate exercise into your week.
- Plan one activity you genuinely look forward to each week, such as a swim, a dance class, or a group session.
- Try something new. Whether it’s joining a team sport or attending a pilates class for the first time, there’s no harm in exploring new options.
Keep In Touch With Family And Loved Ones👨👩👧👦
The holiday season highlights how important connections with loved ones are. As you move into the new year, prioritising time with the people who matter most can have a real and lasting impact on your wellbeing.
- Set up regular check-ins such as a weekly call with family members to stay connected – studies show that on average, people who have strong social connections are happier and healthier.
- Plan simple, low-pressure activities like a coffee, walk, or shared hobby each month with a friend to give you something enjoyable to look forward to.
- Reach out to someone you’ve fallen out of contact with and take the first step to reconnect.
Be Mindful Of Screen Time🤳
As routines shift in January, it’s easy to fall into long scrolling sessions without realising how much time has passed. Research shows that on average, adults spend over 3 hours a day on their phones - implementing a few simple boundaries can help you create more space for rest and focus.
- Start the day screen-free or delay phone use until after breakfast.
- Set do-not-disturb hours to create natural pauses in your day.
- Use app blockers or limit social media use to certain times of the day, to reduce temptation.
Take Time To Relax😴
The end of the year is one of the busiest periods and can feel overwhelming. January is a great opportunity to slow things down and begin mindful practices that help you feel grounded and calm.
- Start your morning with five minutes of journaling to centre your thoughts and help you prepare for the day ahead.
- Practice gratitude techniques to ground your mindset.
- Use a short, guided meditation to help calm and focus your mind at the end of busy days.
Bring In The New Year, Better.
The new year is an exciting opportunity to rebuild good habits and step in feeling refreshed - there’s no need to drastically transform your routine or put pressure on yourself.
Here’s to a mindful, balanced, and well-hydrated 2026.
