A Fresh Start to the New Year: Tips for Building a New Routine

13 Dec

January is perfect for resetting and refocusing on your health and well-being. It’s tempting to go from 0 to 100 when restarting or ramping up your routine but diving in too quickly can lead to tight muscles, discomfort, or even injury.

I know this all too well because I’ve been guilty of getting over-enthusiastic, pushing too hard, and ending up out of action with an injury before January is over. It’s frustrating, and it affects not just my physical health but also my mental well-being. So, I want to share a few lessons I’ve learned to help you ease into the new year with confidence.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

Showing up is often the hardest part. For me, it’s about finding small, achievable actions, so each year, I set myself the challenge of getting on my yoga mat every day. Some days I’ll do a full session and other days I’ll fight with myself and end up just stretching or lying there, but every time I get on the mat, it always feels like progress.

When starting or restarting a fitness routine, ease in with lighter workouts and gradually build intensity. A 10-minute stretch or brisk walk is a great way to get moving and allows your body to adapt to a new routine.

Find What Feels Good

If the thought of going to the gym fills you with dread (not just me, right?), don’t force it. Find something you enjoy, like a fitness class, swimming, or a jog with a friend around Hackney Marshes. Movement should feel good!

Listen to Your Body

Rest days are just as important as active days. If you’re feeling sore or tired, pushing through can lead to injury. Instead, take it easy and try some active recovery, like gentle yoga, swimming, or, even better, get a sports massage.

How Sports Massage Can Help

Sports massage isn’t just for athletes. My goal is to help prevent injuries by reducing tension, improving mobility, and promoting recovery. Every session is tailored to your needs, combining massage with techniques like stretching and mobilisation to leave you feeling relaxed, revived, and ready to move.

From January, I’m available for morning sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:30 am and evening sessions on Fridays from 5:00–9:00 pm at Healing Space Hackney on Chatsworth Road, E5 0LP.

Kickstart your year with my “January Reboot Offer”: