Spark

Happy New Year! We’re still giddy from the big night, and more determined than ever to start 2017 off on the right foot. Even if you’re not the resolution-making type, it never hurts to reflect on where you’re going and commit to making a few positive changes. Here are five simple resolutions worth considering, to make 2017 your best year yet.

1. Donate your time to a cause.

Nothing feels better than doing something for someone else! We work with as many charity groups and community initiatives as we can throughout the year, not only because it feels great, but because we see the positive impact it has on our community. Decide on a cause you’re passionate about, then contact them for ways to get involved. If you’re daunted by the idea of adding more responsibilities to your already busy life, find out how you can start small and go from there. We promise it will be the most rewarding thing you do this year.

2. Start a journal.

Remember journals? Even though technology plays such a huge role in our lives, there’s something about putting pen to paper and having a tangible journal that feels so special. It becomes a keepsake that you can hold onto forever, and it encourages you to reflect and remember, which is so important as we get older (and busier!). Keep in mind that journaling can be anything from a traditional diary style, to a simple line-a-day approach. And if writing just isn’t your thing, try colouring as an alternate way to get some you-time.

3. Invest in your health.

Your health is the most important thing, and sometimes it takes a bit of effort to get back on track. We’re not saying you need to become Gwyneth Paltrow overnight, but taking vitamins or trying a detox bath are simple things you can do that will make a big difference to your overall wellbeing. Your skin always needs a bit of extra TLC this time of year, and all-natural products from Saje are perfect for that extra nourishment. You can’t go wrong with their body scrub or rejuvenating elixir!

4. Make a workout plan.

You saw this coming, didn’t you? Working out may be the classic New Year’s Resolution cliché, but seriously, let’s make 2017 the year you conquer your workout routine! Find an activity you love doing – whether that's yoga, soccer, kickboxing, or daily long walks with the dog – and give it your all. Set realistic goals and expectations, then pick up some gear to help you get and stay motivated. A cute pair of neon running shoes always helps us get excited for our workout, and quality headphones will give your routine an extra energy boost! See more workout-gear inspiration here and here.

5. Start a new TV show.

There’s no shortage of great TV shows to watch right now, and while we love Netflix as much as anyone, a boxed set of DVDs is the perfect alternative for lazy weekends at the wifi-free cottage, or anyone who’s terrified their favourite series will be pulled from the Netflix roster without warning. A few of our binge-watching favourites are The Walking Dead, Gilmore Girls (talk about a throwback!), and Pretty Little Liars. As far as we’re concerned, the best way to spend a lazy Sunday is curled up on the couch with a hot cup of tea, powering through a season.

However you decide to spend 2017, we hope you have a great year!

Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the products featured in this post (check stores for availability):

Start a journal:

Journal: Chapters, $14.00
Pen: Chapters, $18.00
Colouring book: Chapters, $11.95
Coloured pencils: Chapters, $16.00
2017 calendar: Chapters, $29.99

Invest in your health:

Women’s vitamins: Sunrise Health, $35.99
Salt lamp: Sunrise Health, $36.99
Sunshine smoothie scrub: Saje, $15.00
Rejuvenating Elixir: Saje, $25.95
Tingle lips: Saje, $5.00
Herbivore Calm and Detox salts: Chapters, $20.00 (each)
Tummy TLC tea: Chapters, $15.00
Herbivore jasmine oil: Chapters $32

Make a workout plan:

Purple yoga mat: SportChek, $34.99
Runners: SportChek (Nike), $164.99
Water bottle: SportChek (Nike), $25.00
Headphones: SportChek, $249.99

Start a new TV show:

Gilmore Girls (Season 1): HMV, $30.00
Walking Dead (Season 6): HMV, $54.99
Pretty Little Liars (Season 1): HMV, $35.00
Striped mug: Hudson's Bay, $14.00
Fur blanket: Chapters, $99.50