As the new year rolls in, many of us are on a quest to rediscover happiness in our daily lives. The secret lies in blending movement with moderation. This combination helps us create a more meaningful existence filled with joy. In this newsletter, we’ll explore what truly sparks joy, share inspiring client success stories, discuss the concept of Dry January, and offer uplifting wisdom to guide you on your path to happiness.
What Sparks Joy?
As we step out of the whirlwind of the holidays, I’ve been reflecting on the simple joys I’d lost touch with amidst the busyness of life. A couple of those rediscovered joys is cooking and pinball! I’ve realized how much I love preparing a challenging meal and savoring it with my family, or yelling at the pinball machine as the ball goes past the flippers! The other as pictured below is getting outside and spending some quality time with the family and a donkey. Yep, you read that correctly, a donkey:)
Sometimes, we get so caught up in the routine that we forget to make space for the things that bring us happiness. That’s what this issue is all about—reclaiming joy and intentionally weaving it into our daily lives.
Adding joy to our lives enhances our overall well-being! However, it’s crucial to set boundaries. It’s perfectly acceptable to say "no thanks" to tasks that drain your energy faster than a phone on 1% battery, while enthusiastically saying "yes, please!" to experiences that make you feel like you just won the lottery. Connecting with positive people (think bucket fillers, not bucket kickers—more on that in a bit!) and diving into uplifting conversations can amplify these joyful experiences, resulting in a life that's not just fulfilling, but also filled with a little extra fun!
Client Spotlight
This month, I'm excited to highlight the inspiring journey of one of my clients, Nancy. Nancy has been working with me for about a year, focusing on overcoming back and hip pain. One of her biggest breakthroughs came when she noticed she could pick up her grandkids with more ease.
Here is what Nancy has to say about Pilates.... "I have back issues that made me not stand up tall. With the help of Amanda and Pilates, I am standing tall. I feel better walking my dogs and playing with my three grandchildren. Before Pilates I could hardly bend over! I want to stay active in my retirement years."
To me, that’s what Pilates is all about—helping you do what you love with less pain and greater confidence. If you’re ready to explore how Pilates can enhance your life, click the button below to connect with me.
Is Dry January a Good Idea?
Many clients have mentioned trying Dry January or starting a cleanse to kick off the new year. While hitting “reset” isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s worth examining whether eliminating something entirely—like alcohol or certain foods—is sustainable.
Complete restriction often backfires, making you crave the very thing you’ve given up. Instead, consider moderation. For example, if you’ve been indulging (like I have with my son home over the holidays!), simply return to your usual balanced habits. No crash diets, no extremes—just consistency.
On the topic of returning to healthier eating habits, take a look at this guide for navigating the grocery store without unexpected items ending up in your cart!
Words of Wisdom: Bucket Fillers
In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to neglect the things that fill your bucket and spark joy. Everyone’s bucket filler is different—it could be movement, reading, meditating, playing golf, or going on a walk with a donkey!
For me, movement is my ultimate bucket filler. It doesn’t have to be a high-intensity workout; often, it’s a peaceful walk or, of course, a Pilates session.
Think about what fills your bucket and brings you joy. The word “enjoy” literally has joy in it—so if something in your day doesn’t spark joy, consider letting it go. Life is too short not to prioritize joy.
As we navigate through life, reflecting on motivating words can inspire us to keep striving for joy. Here are a few quotes that capture the essence of movement, moderation, and meaning:
"Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions." – Dalai Lama
"The only way to do great work is to love what you do." – Steve Jobs
"In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years." – Abraham Lincoln
So, what will you do today to embrace happiness? Let this be the year you truly prioritize joy—because you deserve it!
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