January, named after the Roman God Janus who was depicted with one face looking back at the past and the other facing the future, seems to be a favourite time for us to make a commitment to change.

This often means changing behaviour of some sort. Typically we resolve to do something different and new, or stop doing something which we know isn’t good for us. A common objective is self-improvement, in theory for a better self and therefore a better (happier) life.

So,we may declare an intention to have a Dry January, lose a certain amount of weight, do couch to 5 km, wild water swimming, padel, pickleball, or other exercise, stop spending as much, read more, find (or end) an intimate relationship ……

Whilst these goals may have health and other benefits, they sometimes prove difficult to act on or maintain. We may blame willpower, but often it is about expecting too much of ourselves; if we didn’t do these things in the months leading up to January, there was probably a reason. For example, binging on sweet or savoury ultra-processed foods can feel comforting, relieve stress, at the time, and similarly alcohol can initially make us feel relaxed and rewarded after a busy day. Fitting regular exercise into an already full-on working day may mean early mornings or late evenings – dark, damp and cold at this time of year, so unappealing. The habits we have developed tend to be about soothing unwanted feelings, managing stress, and distracting ourselves to avoid facing and dealing with problems, staying in the comfort zone.

Perhaps we can look at the year ahead with fresh eyes and reset our path forward. Instead of doing/not doing something , we could reflect on our way of being . We are, after all, human beings. So, let’s consider improving how we are, and how we live, by focusing on our our mental health. This can be done by developing access to our calmer, peaceful – perhaps more spiritual? – self. through a form of regulated breathing and meditating, Mindfulness. There is evidence that daily practice of this gently alters brain chemistry and enhances a sense of well-being. Mindfulness does not demand significant commitment of time, and is free! There are no adverse side effects and we can all do it. I suggest starting with just 2 minute sessions 4 times a day and building up to longer sessions, perhaps 15 minutes, twice daily. There is lots of information about Mindfulness online with guidance about the helpful, calming breathing process. This is a change that can be a lasting one with life-long benefit to us and therefore to those we care about.