As another year draws to a close, we can take stock of what we’re grateful for. This December has brought with it some familiar concerns, but we’ve also come a long way. And we should be proud of getting through another year together!
Along with appreciating the past, the new year is the best time to look to the future. Rather than trying to do a complete overhaul, try to set some small intentions for the next year that will have a positive impact on your life. Check out our ideas below for little ways to make a fresh start in 2022!
Do a Deep Clean
Sometimes the best place to start fresh is in your home! A clean home can have a truly positive effect on our wellbeing. And there’s nothing like going into the new year with a fresh, sparkling abode. Here are some of the best cleaning tips we’ve picked up over the years at GO-Cottage.
- Open all the windows and turn on the fan
- Start with the linens; get a wash going first thing
- Tackle the baths and kitchen before other rooms
- Use natural cleaning products
- Use a long-handled duster to get all surfaces and hard to reach places
- Once everything is organized, vacuum and mop
- Disinfect door knobs, handles, kitchen and bath fixtures, TV remotes, etc!
Cleaning is an art form and a clean environment sets the right tone to welcome the new year.
Take Up a New Sport
While you might more readily associate spring and summer with outdoor exercise, winter offers many of its own refreshing sports. One of our favorites is cross-country skiing. It’s a workout that can be as intensive as you want it to be. And you get to be out in the crisp air, taking in all the gorgeous snowy scenery.
We love going to Mount Van Hoevenberg to cross-country ski. It’s only a hop, skip and a jump from GO-Cottage! Mount Van Hoe has ski rentals there, and it’s perfect for beginners and experienced cross-country skiers alike.
Go Vegan — At Least for a Few Nights a Week!
One of the best changes we’ve implemented in our own lives was going vegan a few years ago. We feel healthy and strong, and eating vegan is kinder to the environment too. These days, it’s never been easier to be vegan. There are so many plant-based ingredients on the market. And because of this, there’s an endless variety of vegan meals you can make!
If you’re not ready to take the plunge, you can start by dipping a toe in and incorporating a few vegan dinners each week. Try out this hearty bean and grain stew recipe from Bon Appétit. It’s substantial enough to please even lifelong meat eaters.
This broccoli salad is another great and gloriously healthy option, packed with tasty nutrients and fun textures courtesy of pistachios and dates. Enjoy!
Think Sustainably
Being vegan is one way to have a more positive impact on the environment. While New Year is classically a time of self-improvement, it’s also the perfect time to think about how your actions affect the world around you. Living a sustainable life can seem daunting, but even little changes can help. Here are a few ideas for making your lifestyle more green.
- Compost
- Plant trees
- Buy organic
- Plant a vegetable garden
- Avoiding buying single-use plastics
- Support sustainable brands if you have to buy new
- Wash your clothes in cold water
- Unplug electronics
- Use natural light as much as possible
We’d love to hear your own resolutions for a fresh start in 2022! And we wish you all a safe, happy and healthy New Year!
