Here in Austin, we believe most things you need to live a beautiful, healthy life is already within reach. As we enter January, the energy of the new year brings a unique sense of possibility and renewal. While the opportunity to focus on your health and well-being is always present, the start of a new year feels like a fresh invitation to commit (or recommit) to the things that matter most — to feel your best, inside and out.
PHYSICAL FITNESS AND HEALTH
Schedule your medical exams now. Don’t let that appointment you’ve been putting off slip through the cracks. 2025 is here, and it’s all about taking control of our well-being—early, intentional, and with purpose. This is the moment to schedule it, prioritize your health, and set the tone for a year of self-care and wellness. You’ve got this.
Hit the trail. One of the easiest ways to get moving? Walking. In Austin, one of the best trails is right downtown at Lady Bird Lake. Whether you're in the mood for a short stroll or a longer, more invigorating challenge, there's a perfect route to match whatever you're craving.
Practice your poses and try a new pilates studio. Pilates is the perfect blend of mindfulness and low-impact movement. If you’re looking to elevate your practice, look no further than Haus of B and Homebody Studios in the heart of Clarksville.
Swim laps at Barton Springs. This year, we're diving into Barton Springs—yes, even with the freezing temperatures. Embrace the cold and take a few invigorating laps around the pool. Swimming is a timeless practice, perfect for every age, and a powerful way to reset both body and mind. Embrace the cold, and TAKE. THE. DIVE.
Rock climbing at Crux. If you’ve explored all the usual ways to move your body and are craving something a bit more out of the box, rock climbing is the perfect challenge. Head to studios like
Crux Climbing Center or the Austin Bouldering Project for a full-body workout that will engage both mind and muscle.
MENTAL HEALTH
Manage stress. One of the most essential practices for maintaining a healthy mind is managing stress, and a key part of that is setting clear boundaries. By honoring your limits, you create space for true balance and peace. It’s an act of self-care that allows you to show up fully—for yourself and for others.
Stay mentally stimulated. Activities like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, chess, or brain-training apps are a brilliant way to engage your mind in thoughtful problem-solving and strategic thinking. These exercises help sharpen focus, boost cognitive function, and keep your brain active.
Practice mindfulness and gratitude. Gratitude and mindfulness are essential for nurturing a healthy mind, and what better way to cultivate both than by exploring a new trail. Take a mindful walk through the Spyglass, or Hill of Life—each offering a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature and yourself.
Set realistic achievable goals. Take a moment this year to pause, reflect, and set intentions that feel aligned with your true self. Focus on achievable goals that inspire growth, balance, and purpose—and create the space to fully embrace them.
Read. Whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, losing yourself in a book is a powerful way to nourish your mind and spark new perspectives. Check out bookstores like BookPeople and First Light Books for your next read.
Digital detox. Put. The. Screens. Down.
Explore a museum. Alongside your digital detox, a perfect way to immerse yourself in Austin’s culture is by exploring its museums. Visit places like The Blanton, The Contemporary, and the Bullock Museum to discover a rich blend of art, history, and more.
WELLNESS
Sleep well. This year, make prioritizing quality sleep a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Saunas and steam rooms. Sweat it out—there’s a reason saunas and steam rooms have stood the test of time. They offer a wealth of benefits, from boosting circulation and detoxifying the body to relieving stress and promoting deep relaxation. Check out Alive and Well’s 3 wave infrared sauna.
Prioritize going outside. It's absolutely essential to carve out time every day to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up some vitamin D. Your body and mind will thank you for it
Spa day. Treat yourself.
Prioritize nontoxic ingredients. Opt for non-toxic ingredients whenever possible. In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of what’s in the products you consume—always take a moment to read the label.
EAT
Eat a balanced diet. Eating well is a lifestyle. Cook at home when you can, and when you're on the go, choose spots like raw REPUBLIC, Picnik and Honest Mary's that prioritize clean, nourishing food.
Stay hydrated: Fill your YETI and get drinking…your body will thank you.
JuiceLand: Everyone's favorite smoothie shop, JuiceLand, is known to source high-quality, sustainable ingredients, including organic fruits and vegetables. Making it a perfect place to get your smoothie fix.
Eat local foods: Emphasizing local ingredients isn’t only healthy for your body but sustainable for the planet…making it a win win. Would rather eat out? Check out Tiny Boxwoods for locally sourced dishes.
SOCIAL HEALTH
Engage in regular social activities: Regular social engagement is essential for a vibrant, balanced life. It lifts your mood, reduces stress, and nurtures mental clarity by creating meaningful connections.
Consider joining a fitness club: Joining a fitness group is a transformative experience for both body and mind. It offers the perfect blend of motivation, accountability, and community, keeping you aligned with your goals and inspired every step of the way.
Engage in acts of kindness: Do good to the community.
SAY YES! Be open to new experiences, you never know what the new year will bring.
We wish you all a very happy and healthy 2025.
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