Jade Harvey
Guest columnist
As we progress further into January and the newness of New Year’s fades into obscurity, the only thing that remains shiny and fresh is the snow in the hills. It is is inevitable that with the (albeit arbitrary) turning of our annual clock we look to this as a chance for change, development and often for the tradition of New Year’s Resolutions.
These particular resolutions however, are more likely to be broken than other resolutions made at other times. As habit loops take over in the survival mode required to get back to life after the holidays, even with the best intentions we find ourselves back in the old way of things. Disregarding our own thoughts about improvement, it is likely you will break your resolutions in either whole or part.
The first thing to note is not to feel too guilty about this. Popular science and programs have spread the idea that one month of consistent activity is all that is necessary to forge new habits. So if you can do ‘Dry January’ or quit smoking for month you’ll be free. A piece of British research published in Health Psychology Review found that in fact, it’s closer to 66 days. So if you’re punishing yourself about cravings or slipping back before or after a month, don’t. Disrupting automatic behavioural responses to environmental stimuli takes a lot of time.
Resolutions don’t have to just revolve about achieving a specific health goal. If you’re looking for more fulfilment or to ‘feel better’ overall, scientists in large scale US study in Social Science and Medicine suggest that people who volunteer as little as two hours each week report greater happiness, sense of purpose and increased health. These findings were irrespective of the socio-economic status of the volunteer. In Revelstoke there are numerous groups, societies and community events that would appreciate your time. You can check out the volunteer page at the City of Revelstoke website https://revelstoke.ca/256/Volunteering-In-Revelstoke or go to the community centre where this is a bulletin board with opportunities.
As a volunteer myself, most recently for the Revelstoke Adaptive Sports Program, I can attest to the joy that I have received getting the chance to learn, try new things and connect with a hugely diverse group of people. The movement of thinking about self (I, me) to others, (you, they) can have a huge impact on how you view your own wellbeing – as by focusing on the success of others you automatically improve your own.
As a person who never sits stills and has a life dictated by varying and busy work and play schedules I could understand reticence to commit. However, a lot of volunteer opportunities are in fact flexible and would not require a huge amount of time. It’s worth a shot if you’re feeling a lack of connection with your community or just your own sense of purpose this year.
If your physical health is the point of contention for you – i.e you want to lose weight or be more healthy the emphasis should be on the latter. Sandra Aamodt, Neuroscientist and former editor of a leading brain research journal has published a book that highlights regular exercise, good food choices and stress reduction over trying to lose weight as an indicator of wellbeing. If you’re struggling to know where to start with this there are numerous places in town that offer guidance. A place I coach for and have seen real results occur with, is locally owned Crossfit Revelstoke. Focusing on good nutrition and a good exercise regimen they can help anyone from an elite athlete to a first time exerciser. Crossfit has a reputation for being ‘extreme’ but is anything but. Fun, skill building and varied classes that don’t get boring yes, extreme no. Exercises are scaled to match the capabilities of the individual and sessions are in small groups, with a qualified instructor watching and correcting all the time. There are no mirrors in the gym and a teamwork and supportive workout environment is cultivated. You can find more information at crossfitrevelstoke.com.
I think the key point is as the end of January looms don’t berate yourself too harshly for not meeting resolution goals, however if you desire change there are easily accessible options in our magnificent town to move you there. I hope this becomes your best year yet Revelstoke!
Jade graduated with a 1st Class Honours BSc in Physical Geography from QMUL, a top 5 university in Europe. Having spent the last 8 years travelling the mountainous regions of the world, mountain guiding and lecturing on science in schools she now likes to share her passion for science through writing and telling stories at the Regent Hotel.
