Easing Into the Year With Kindness

The new year has a way of arriving loudly.  Fresh calendars. Bold intentions. Big plans.  That pesky New Year’s Resolution.  Corny concept, in my opinion. I’ve never really subscribed to making them...because just as quickly as they're made, they soon fall back, and other things become important. Then what…?

By the time February rolls around, the confetti has been swept up (as best as one can get it…LOL), pre-holiday routines have returned, Christmas bills come in the mail, and reality has taken the place of most, if not all, resolutions made. This is the moment people decide they’re “behind.”  Failed...again! I’m sure someone, somewhere, has the stats, but I’d venture to guess that February is the month that resolutions go completely out the window; and people begin to ask themselves "what happened?"

But what if February isn’t about catching up at all?  What if it’s about arriving...for ourselves?

Settled, Not Stuck

If you’re feeling stuck, unsettled, or disappointed in yourself, don’t take ownership of the unnecessary stress.  There’s something grounding about being a few weeks into the year.  The pressure has eased. The noise has quieted. We can finally hear ourselves think.

This is the season where honest reflection lives:

· What feels doable?

· What feels forced?

· What needs patience instead of pressure?

Being settled doesn’t mean stagnant.  It means you’ve given yourself enough space to breathe before moving forward.

Preparing to Move — Gently

Movement and exercise don’t have to start with intensity.  There's no need for a countdown or dramatic reset.  Sometimes preparing to move looks like:

· stretching instead of sweating,

· walking instead of running,

· listening instead of pushing.

Your body doesn’t need to be shocked into action — it needs to be invited…when you know you’re ready.  Mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Walking In My Fibro Sneakers

"My Fibro Sneakers" isn’t just a blog title — it’s a reminder that we all walk into each year carrying different things.  Different energy levels. Different aches. Different starting points.  Different things on the horizon. So when I talk about easing into movement, I’m coming from experience — from walking this path in a body that requires attention, patience, and care. I've learned that sustainable movement isn’t about how fast you start, but how well you listen along the way.

Easing in isn’t hesitation.  It’s awareness.

Kindness Is Part of the Process

We’re often kinder to our calendars than to our bodies.  Kinder to expectations than to energy levels.  But sustainable movement — the kind that lasts — begins with respect.  Respect for where you are.  Respect for what your body is telling you.  Respect for the fact that showing up gently is still showing up.

Progress doesn’t mean any less just because you move slowly.  As a matter of fact, it often becomes more meaningful.  More meaningful because when moving more slowly, one tends to be more intentional in making the best of every move.

There’s Still Time — Always

If January passed quietly for you, that’s okay.  If you’re just now feeling ready to move, that’s okay too.  Beginnings never expire.  A new year doesn’t need to be rushed.  Your body doesn’t need to be pushed.  And your journey doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.  As a matter of fact, it won't. I don't know about you, but I don't even want anyone elses journey. I want what's meant for me. Calm waters allow for clearer direction.  And when movement begins with kindness, it tends to stay.

Always remember…one step at a time.

Sloan,

The Lady Trainer