Healthy New Year
Living fully, mindfully, happily and healthily: how to transition to holistic living. By Becci Grant
Reading time: 4 minutes
The more people I speak to, it becomes apparent that so many of us are feeling stuck, keen to be healthier and happier and to find an escape from the everyday pressures of modern life. That’s especially true in a world that often feels fast-paced or disconnected, one that leaves many of us craving a life that’s more balanced, mindful and nourishing.
A holistic lifestyle embraces this vision, recognising that true wellness comes from aligning mind, body and soul. Whether you're new to holistic practices or seeking a fresh perspective, this simple little guide offers simple, actionable steps to cultivate a life of harmony and purpose.
I adopt the 1% rule: If you can change just one thing a day, one thing that is going to cultivate health and happiness, all these little changes will ultimately create a big change.
1. Step into Mindfulness: A Â Foundation for Holistic Living.
Mindfulness is the art of being fully present in each moment and it’s the cornerstone of a holistic lifestyle. By living mindfully, we bring intention and awareness to everything we do, creating a ripple effect of calm and focus.
Embrace Daily Mindfulness: Start small. When you’re eating, savour each bite. When you’re walking, notice the world around you. By practicing mindfulness in simple tasks, you’re building a foundation that will support deeper wellness. Just become aware and make a conscious effort.
Morning Rituals for Intentional Living: Begin each day with a grounding ritual, like setting an intention or practicing deep breathing. Take five minutes to reflect on what you want to bring into the day, whether it’s patience, gratitude or energy.
Practice Gratitude: A gratitude practice is a powerful way to cultivate positivity. Try listing three things you’re grateful for each day. This simple habit rewires your mind to notice the good in life, building resilience and joy.
Here are three meaningful questions to ask yourself each morning to set a positive, mindful tone for the day:
What intention do I want to set for today?
Reflecting on an intention — such as patience, gratitude, focus, or kindness — helps align your actions with your values and gives you a purposeful direction for the day.
What am I grateful for right now?
Starting with gratitude shifts your mindset toward positivity, no matter what lies ahead. It reminds you of the abundance in your life, even in the smallest things.
What would make today feel fulfilling?
Whether it’s accomplishing a task, connecting with someone, or taking time for self-care, this question encourages you to prioritise what truly matters and brings joy or satisfaction to your day.
2. Nourish Your Body with Whole, Natural Foods
A holistic lifestyle is fuelled by what you eat, and whole foods provide the energy your body needs to thrive. Shifting to a natural diet isn’t about restriction but about abundance – nourishing yourself with real, vibrant foods that support every cell in your body.
Choose Whole, Unprocessed Foods:
Prioritise fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide the essential vitamins and minerals your body craves.
Hydrate with Intention: Water is essential for every bodily function. Start your day with a glass of warm lemon water to kickstart digestion, then stay hydrated throughout the day.
Embrace the Power of Herbs and Teas: Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint and ginger offer natural healing properties, from reducing stress to aiding digestion. Experiment with different blends to support your health and mood. Start each morning with a nutrient-dense smoothie.
3. Move Your Body with Joy and  Purpose
Movement is a vital aspect of holistic living, but it doesn’t have to mean intense workouts. The goal is to find joy in movement, whether through yoga, walking, or dancing.
Yoga for Mind and Body Harmony: Yoga is a powerful practice that brings the mind and body into alignment. It strengthens muscles, increases flexibility and calms the mind. Try starting with a few sun salutations in the morning to energise and ground yourself.
Spend Time Outdoors: Nature is a natural healer, and time spent outdoors can reduce stress, boost mood, and provide physical benefits. Even a short walk outside allows you to connect with the earth, clear your mind, and return to your centre.
Explore Different Forms of Movement: Find what brings you joy, whether it’s a hike, a bike ride, a dance class, or Tai Chi, the gym, walking the dog. Moving with pleasure, not pressure, is key to sustaining a holistic lifestyle.
4. Nurture Your Soul with  Reflection and Connection
Holistic living means nurturing your inner self, honouring your emotions and creating space for reflection. When we prioritise our soul’s wellbeing, we experience deeper peace and purpose.
Cultivate Self-Care Rituals: Self-care is essential for mental and emotional health. Dedicate one evening a week to self-care, whether it’s a soothing bath, reading a good book, or journaling. This ritual provides a chance to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.
Practice Reflection Through Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and clarity. Try ending each day with a journal entry about what went well, what you learned, and what you’re looking forward to.
Connect with a Like-Minded Community: Building connections with others who value holistic living provides support and inspiration. Look for local yoga classes, wellness workshops, or online communities where you can share experiences and learn together and lean on that support.
5. Simplify and Practice Mindful Consumption
Living holistically extends beyond the self – it’s about how you interact with the world around you. Being mindful of what you consume, both physically and mentally, is crucial for a balanced life.
Choose Quality Over Quantity: Mindful consumption is about choosing items that add value and joy to your life. This might mean buying sustainably made clothes, selecting ecofriendly products, or decluttering your home to create a calming environment.
Adopt Minimalism in Your Space: Decluttering your space has a powerful effect on the mind. A clean, organised environment creates a sense of calm and clarity. Start with one small area, like your desk or nightstand, and build from there.
Be Intentional with Technology: Technology is a wonderful tool, but overuse can increase stress and anxiety. Set boundaries with screen time and consider a weekly ‘digital detox’ to reconnect with yourself and those around you, make none negotiables.
6. Set Intentions and Embrace the Journey.
Holistic living is a journey, not a destination. It’s about making small, intentional choices every day that nurture all aspects of your wellbeing. By setting clear intentions, you give direction to your journey, allowing room for growth and self-compassion.
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Start with small steps – like drinking an extra glass of water or practicing five minutes of meditation – and build upon them over time.
Celebrate the Little Wins: Acknowledge each step forward, no matter how small. Celebrate the days you feel connected and grounded, and be gentle with yourself on the days that feel challenging.
Honour Your Unique Path: Your journey is yours alone, and it will look different from anyone else’s. Embrace this uniqueness and trust that each mindful step you take brings you closer to a balanced, fulfilling life.
Embrace Holistic Living for a Life of Harmony and Fulfilment
Holistic living is a transformative approach that brings harmony to the mind, body, and soul. By taking small, meaningful steps – like practicing mindfulness, nourishing your body with whole foods, moving with joy, and nurturing your inner self – you’re crafting a lifestyle that supports your true essence. Remember, this journey is about progress, not perfection. Embrace each step, and watch as your life transforms in beautiful, intentional ways.
Let me leave you with a question to end on: How would your life transform if you started honouring every aspect of yourself — mind, body, and soul — each and every day?
Becci Grant is a doctor of natural medicine and founder of a holistic healing sanctuary, who’s passionate about helping others find balance and joy. Visit: rejuvenairsanctuary.co.uk or connect on Instagram @rejuvenairsanctuary
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
