DNA study on identical twins showcases food quality, sourcing is vital to healthy outcomes

Sacramento, CA, Jan. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Trifecta, a Greater Sacramento Economic Council board member, and the nations largest organically sourced meal delivery service, is making waves on Netflix with a captivating documentary that has soared to the number three trending spot globally. The documentary, You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment sheds light on the critical importance of mindful eating and the impact of diet on our bodies.

Produced by Academy Award-winning Director Luis Psihoyos, the series delves into a groundbreaking diet study conducted by Stanford Professor Dr. Christopher Gardner featured in JAMA. Studying nutrition can be challenging due to the variations in DNA and lifestyles. To address this, Stanford University conducted a study using identical twins. The research involved twins following different diets: one consumed an omnivorous diet, while the other adopted a vegan diet. The study lasted eight weeks with Trifecta supplying the food for the first four weeks for both groups. It was during these initial four weeks that the most significant positive outcomes were observed.

We are honored to be part of this impactful JAMA study and Netflix DocuSeries showcasing the impact our food has on the environment and our health, Greg Connolly, Co-Founder and CEO of Trifecta said. Starting a healthy food business in the farm-to-fork capital of the world, Sacramento was a huge benefit to our success. This documentary was on more than human health outcomes though, it was about sourcing food ethically and sustainably, so we can innovate and improve the nations food supply chain.

"The authors found the most improvement over the first four weeks of the diet change. The participants with a vegan diet had significantly lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, insulin and body weight all of which are associated with improved cardiovascular health" Emily Moskal, Science Writer at Stanford.

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The Greater Sacramento region supporting entrepreneurship in the food space is imperative for economic development. Trifectas success is a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial spirit in our state capital, Barry Broome, President and CEO of the Greater Sacramento Economic Council said. We have seen immense growth in our capital markets with $12B over five years in investments.

Professor Christopher Gardner, renowned for his work in nutritional research acknowledged the importance of using Trifectas healthy meal options that is locally sourced food.

Trifectas involvement in our study was pivotal, Garder said. Their commitment to quality organic meals played a crucial role in unraveling the dietary effects on health.

Academy Award-winning Director Luis Psihoyos and Executive Director of the Oceanic Preservation Society (OPS) praised Trifectas contribution.

In showcasing the Stanford study, Trifecta has become a symbol of responsible and health-conscious nutrition, which is critical and a main focal point in this documentary."

As Trifecta continues to redefine the meal delivery landscape, this documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our food choices have on our well-being and the environment.

About Trifecta

Trifecta is the nation's largest organic meal delivery service founded with a bold mission dedicated to health, by delivering fresh, healthy meals directly to your door. We began Trifecta because we believe there are three fundamental areas of healthmind, body, and social. These areas are interdependent, meaning you cannot thrive in one area without thriving in the others.

Trifecta eliminates shopping, cooking, and cleaning by delivering fully cooked meals weekly and direct to customers' doors in all 50 states. Trifecta's food is some of the highest quality in the industry, using high quality organically sourced and grass-fed ingredients. We offer meals in six categories to meet everyone's needs, including Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Vegetarian, Clean Eating, Classic Meal, and a Meal Prep section, so you can enjoy delicious, healthy meals at home, in the office, or on the run.

Learn more about Trifecta byvisitingtrifectanutrition.comand following along onFacebook,Twitter, andInstagram.

About the Greater Sacramento Economic Council

The Greater Sacramento Economic Council is the catalyst for innovative growth strategies in the Capital Region of California. The organization spearheads community-led direction to retain, attract, grow and scale tradable sectors, develop advanced industries and create jobs and investment throughout a six-county region. Greater Sacramento represents a collaboration between local and state governments, market leaders, influencers and stakeholders, with the sole mission of driving inclusive economic growth. The Greater Sacramento region was founded on discovery, built on leadership and fueled by innovation.

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Trifecta: A Leading Force in Organic Meal Delivery, Takes Center Stage in Netflix Documentary - Yahoo Finance

One of the best resolutions one can make, with regards to food choices in 2024 is that of the production and consumption of organic food items, such that your food becomes your medicine, as the Greek physician, Hippocrates (400 BC) rightly admonished mankind. But then we have to understand what organic food items are, their nutritional benefits to our bodies and the confessions of Dr. Olukemi Oyegbile whose ill health was saved by keying into organic foods. So, what is it really all about?

Organic food, also called ecological or biological food and drinks are produced using natural substances, without the use of synthetic chemicals, or genetically modified components. There is no use of man-made fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators and livestock feed additives. There is avoidance of all artificial chemicals, hormones and antibiotics. There is mild exposure to heavy metals.

They are fresher, tastier, healthier, with outstanding flavour. They are more nutrient-dense and free of GMOs. And because they are nature-based and chemical-free they are more sustainable and preserve the environment. They promote heart health because they are truly rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, brimming full of vital vitamins and magical minerals. That explains why they are good for digestion and reduce the risk of cancer. They also reduce the risks of allergic diseases as well as reducing the risk of obesity.

All considered, it is interesting to note that the farming methods of our forebears in most parts of Nigeria, nay Africa are organic. They lived close to nature and studied and complied with its laws. They fed on largely natural food items. Are we, therefore, surprised that they lived much longer than we do these days? We should not put the key back into both the production and consumption of organic food items, similarly to what the Indians are currently practising.

To understand the impact that organic food has on ones health, let us learn from the true-life testimonies of Dr Olukemi Oyegbile, formerly a staff member of the United Nations Development Program UNDP, as she made at the Xtralarge Farms program to promote organic food, a few years back. In her words: This is the Lords doings and marvellous in our eyes. My Organic Food, My Medicine (Gen. 1 v. 29; PSM. 104 v. 14; Ezk. 47 v. 12, In Line With Gen 6:3. I was divinely led to see the gain from my pains of 40 years of allergic reaction to heat and dust in Nigeria on a Rescue Mission.

I was born a premature baby in the 50s but was fortunate that my mother who was born in 1920 had a Standard Six School Certificate. That was my saving grace that girl-child education made the then nurses who taught my mother did not understand English had to ensure that I was put in an incubator that was acquired 5 Days before I was born in the Mission Hospital.

So I did not have the opportunity to be breastfed with colostrum milk which should have conferred me with immuno globin to enable me to be desensitised from allergies. I started with childhood asthma. This stopped by itself at the age of 15 years. Thereafter, the allergic skin challenge started.

This was on for 40 years during which as a medical student back then in University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan in the 70s all was done to find a lasting solution. I was placed on steroids-based ointment that I could only use for a short period in order to avoid more serious side effects.

After my graduation as a medical doctor, I had opportunities to seek solutions in South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. The same solution of steroid-based ointments as was in UCH, Ibadan with the same advice that it should be for a short while.

In October 2009 the Holy Spirit convinced me with Psalm 104: verse 14 to use organic supplements and organic food. Listed are the improvements made: 1. The challenge improved by 65% with the first organic supplement which was from the USA so availability stopped in the first quarter of 2017.

2. It improved to 75% with the use of another organic supplement that was from the USA but is no longer available because of Government policy.*

3. Perfectly cleared and 100% desensitised with Xtralarge Farms Organic Food stuff and herbs within 15 months.

4. I am totally free from allergic skin reactions, particularly my right leg which was the last being closest to sand.

_Thus, it took 14 years to be perfectly cleared and desensitised to organic supplements and foods.

There is a need to apply the triple Cs of Commitment, Consistency and Confidence.*_

The Take Home Messages are : 1. Girl-child education is very important in reducing childhood mortalities.

2. Grandparents and parents who are caregivers to newborn babies to ensure that they are fed with *COLOSTRUM MILK* which is available only within 24 hours after birth.

3. Use of drugs to treat symptoms which is like cutting a branch of an Iroko tree compared to Organic Supplements and Foods that take longer time to be very effective which is like uprooting the Iroko tree health challenge, therefore, the application of 3Cs is very important.

This is why I am so passionate about authentic organic food and herbs from a reliable local source like Xtralarge Farms with 100% INTEGRITY. I do not need to look for dollars for these organic foods and herbs.

In conclusion, if you have any chronic ailment and you are looking for rescue like I was in 2009, you are cordially invited to join us in Xtralarge Farms. Contact Dr OLUKEMI OYEGBILE on 08023144160.

Having heard from the horses mouth, it is important to understand what organic food is all about, the nutritional value to your body and health and take that all-important first step now.

Happy and blessed New Year to you all, my dear readers.

Link:

2024: Back to Organic Foods - Businessday

Pennsylvania Amish Farmers Organic Farm Raided Over Licensing Issues

Amos Miller, a Pennsylvania-based Amish farmer, found himself under the radar of law enforcement officials as his private organic farm was raided due to non-compliant registration and licensing practices. The farm, Millers Organic Farm, situated in Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, has been a source of organic food, including pastured meats, raw grass-fed milk, and eggs, for its private membership association.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been tracking Miller since 2016 when they detected listeria in his raw milk; the bacteria bore a genetic resemblance to those found in two individuals who developed listeriosis, resulting in one death. In 2019, Miller found himself sued by the U.S. Department of Agricultures Food Safety and Inspection Service for not adhering to federal food safety regulations.

Although Miller resolved a dispute over unpaid fines and the case was closed in August 2023, trouble revisited him on January 3, 2024. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture executed a raid on his farm, armed with a search warrant issued based on a report of a foodborne pathogen in a product consumed by a minor.

Officials seized various organic food items during the raid and left a detention order on the remaining products, barring their sale without authorization. This action has elicited strong reactions on social media and from public figures like Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who criticized the governments priorities and the consequential impact on small farms and food choices.

A GiveSendGo fund set up in support of the farm has already amassed over $44,000. The incident has underscored the ongoing tension between small organic farms and government regulations, and poses questions about the balance between food safety and consumer freedom of choice.

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Amish Farmer's Organic Farm Raided: Licensing Controversy - BNN Breaking

Fair Showcases Organic Produce and Highlights Certification Processes for Farmers

On a bustling day in Bengaluru, the Millet and Organics International Trade Fair opened its doors to a myriad of farmers, small-scale businesses, and curious customers. The event served as a melting pot of fresh organic produce, sustainable farming tools, and millet-based food items such as biscuits, chips, and snacks. The fair not only offered a platform for networking but also a vital source of knowledge about certifications for organic produce.

The fair provided comprehensive information about national and international certifications like the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP), USCOEA, and the Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAP). These certifications act as a guarantee of quality and safety to consumers, giving certified producers an edge in the competitive market. However, acquiring these certifications is no easy feat.

Applicants for these certifications undergo a rigorous three-year evaluation. The examination scrutinizes production processes, inputs, contamination control, and plant treatment practices. Only those who meet the stringent standards set by the certification bodies can earn these prestigious labels. This process ensures that certified organic products are truly natural, free from harmful chemicals, and sustainably produced.

The fair served as a beacon for farmers, food processors, and traders, illuminating pathways to take their businesses to the national level. By highlighting the importance and processes of obtaining organic certifications, the fair fostered a deeper understanding of the organic markets demands. This, in turn, encouraged a shift towards more sustainable and responsible farming and food processing practices, thus promoting a healthier and greener world.

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Organic Produce Fair: Highlight on Certification Processes - BNN Breaking

New Zealand Food Safety is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the Organic Export Requirement: Organic Production Rules (OER: OPR) which forms part of MPIs Official Organic Assurance Programme. The OER: OPR sets out requirements that organic operators must meet if they are to export or supply for export, organic products under the program.

In July 2023, New Zealand Food Safety called for applications to proposed changes to the generic inputs that could be used by organic producers under the Official Organic Assurance Programme. One application to amend the generic inputs was received and assessed by a panel of technical experts, which recommended that New Zealand Food Safety consult on the inclusion of lignosulphonate for use in organic production.

New Zealand Food Safety is also seeking feedback additional amendments to the OER: OPR, including:

These changes are intended to provide organic operators, exporters and recognised agencies with additional clarity.

The proposed changes relate to the inclusion of lignosulphonate as an input in the OER: OPR and other amendments to clarify definitions, the requirements for the provision of official organic assurances and expectations for the registration of organic exporters.

Submissions close at 5 pm NZDT on 2 February 2024.

More information is available here.

Image credit: iStock.com/Smederevac

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NZ Food Safety calls for submissions on organic exports - Foodprocessing

As the world grapples with environmental challenges, individuals and communities are increasingly recognizing the need for sustainable living, especially in our food choices. The heart of our communities lies in the sustenance we derive from the Earth, and organizations in Edmonton and Calgary are taking significant steps to promote sustainable practices. The Social Mission Commission of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton invites you to explore a variety of businesses and organizations in these cities that champion sustainable food choices, paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future.

Localize (Edmonton): About: Localize is an Edmonton-based organization dedicated to connecting consumers with local, sustainable products. By providing clear labels on grocery store shelves, Localize empowers consumers to make informed choices about the food they purchase.

Website: Localize

SPUD.ca (Sustainable Produce Urban Delivery Calgary): About: SPUD.ca is an online grocery store in Calgary committed to providing sustainably sourced and organic products. With a focus on reducing the environmental impact of food delivery, SPUD.ca delivers fresh, ethically produced groceries right to your doorstep.

Website: SPUD.ca

Farm Fresh Food Hub (Edmonton): About: Farm Fresh Food Hub connects consumers with local farmers, making it easier to access fresh, seasonal produce. By supporting local agriculture, this organization promotes sustainable farming practices and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

Website: Farm Fresh Food Hub

Calgary Farmers Market (Calgary): About: The Calgary Farmers Market is a vibrant hub for local, sustainable food options. With a focus on supporting local farmers and producers, the market provides a diverse range of fresh, seasonal produce, meats, and artisanal products.

Website: Calgary Farmers Market

Edmonton Food Council (Edmonton): About: The Edmonton Food Council is a volunteer-driven organization that works to create a sustainable and resilient local food system. By engaging with the community and advocating for food-related policies, they contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food landscape.

Website: Edmonton Food Council

Avenue Living Communities Community Gardens (Calgary): About: Avenue Living Communities in Calgary fosters sustainable living through community gardens. By providing residents with the opportunity to grow their own food, this organization encourages a connection to the earth and a more sustainable approach to urban living.

Website: Avenue Living Communities

The Organic Box (Edmonton and Calgary): About: The Organic Box is a local grocery delivery service committed to providing fresh, organic produce sourced from local farmers. By supporting The Organic Box, customers contribute to sustainable agriculture and reduce their carbon footprint.

Website: The Organic Box

The organizations listed above are beacons of inspiration in the journey toward sustainable and responsible food choices. By supporting these businesses and organizations, we not only nourish our bodies but also sow the seeds of a more sustainable and resilient future for Edmonton, Calgary, and beyond. Let us celebrate and champion these efforts as we collectively strive for a more sustainable and compassionate world.

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Sowing Seeds of Sustainability: Organizations Supporting Sustainable Food Choices in Edmonton and Calgary - Edmonton Eparchy

The concept of toxic positivity has been gaining traction in recent times, casting a shadow over the idea of maintaining a positive mindset. Critics of toxic positivity argue that it encourages people to suppress or ignore their negative emotions, which can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. However, numerous studies and expert opinions have shown that optimism and positive thinking, when balanced with a healthy dose of reality, are linked to improved mental and physical health outcomes. This article aims to explore the benefits of positive thinking and provide guidance on how to harness its power while avoiding the pitfalls of toxic positivity.

Positive thinking does more than just make you feel good. It has a tangible impact on your mental and physical health, as well as your overall well-being. According to a LinkedIn article, maintaining a positive attitude can lead to reduced stress, enhanced immune function, and improved physical and mental health. It can even impact our longevity and act as a preventative measure against diseases.

But the benefits of positivity extend beyond our bodies. As per a Medium article, fostering a positive mindset can cultivate resilience, nurture positive relationships, and turn challenges into opportunities. It can shape a brighter and more fulfilling future, contributing to personal transformation and success.

So, how do we cultivate this positive mindset? There are several practical strategies that can be employed. Firstly, positive self-talk has been shown to have numerous health and wellness benefits. As Popsugar suggests, it can reduce worry, improve confidence, and even enhance physical performance. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy can help challenge negative core beliefs and reshape your mindset through affirmations and journaling.

Another recommendation is to practice gratitude. Recognizing and appreciating what we have can generate positivity and happiness. It reminds us of our blessings, shifts our focus from what we lack to what we possess, and ultimately contributes to a positive mindset.

While positivity is powerful, it is essential to recognize and avoid toxic positivity. This is when positivity is forced upon oneself or others, invalidating genuine emotions and experiences. It promotes the idea that any type of negative emotion is inherently bad, leading to the suppression of such emotions and causing more harm than good. A healthier approach is to accept that negative emotions are a natural part of life and to deal with them in a constructive way.

The key is to strike a balance between positive thinking and acknowledging negative emotions. It is about being optimistic, but also realistic. As highlighted in a Kathmandu Post article, while positive thinking plays a crucial role in mental health, it should be balanced with professional help and addressing negative emotions. A holistic approach to mental health that includes both positive thinking and dealing with negative emotions is the most beneficial.

In conclusion, positive thinking has immense potential in improving our mental and physical health and boosting our overall well-being. However, it is crucial to recognize the pitfalls of toxic positivity and to balance optimism with a healthy dose of reality. Embrace positivity, but remember its okay to not be okay sometimes.

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The Power of Positive Thinking: Exploring the Benefits and Practical Strategies - Medriva

As we go about our lives, we encounter various challenges that can wear us down. We tend to anticipate the worst, worry a lot and find it hard to break through the shackles of challenges.

So, in a world filled with challenges, maintaining good mental health is more important than ever. One key ingredient to achieving this is cultivating a positive mindset.

At its core, a positive mindset involves adopting an optimistic outlook on life. Instead of dwelling on the negatives, individuals with a positive mindset focus on the brighter side of situations. This doesnt mean ignoring problems but rather approaching them with a hopeful and constructive attitude.

Anjina Sapkota, a residential psychologist at Chaitanya Institute of Mental Health (CIMIH), discusses the subject more. She obtained her psychology degree from the Central Department of Psychology at Kirtipur.

How does a positive mindset impact mental wellbeing?

A positive mindset involves nurturing optimistic thoughts and focusing on personal strengths to tackle the uncertainties and challenges of everyday life with resilience. It greatly benefits an individuals overall mental well-being. However, having a positive mindset doesn't mean ignoring or denying negative emotions or challenges. It's not about unrealistic optimism or believing that everything will always be perfect. Instead, a positive mindset acknowledges difficulties but chooses to approach them with a constructive attitude, actively seeking solutions and navigating through them with resilience and an optimistic outlook.

This mindset can significantly impact mental well-being by promoting healthy coping mechanisms, reshaping negative thought patterns, fostering self-awareness and encouraging individuals to concentrate on their strengths and the positive aspects of life.

Are there practices that individuals can adopt to build a positive mindset?

Certainly, cultivating a positive mindset involves various therapeutic strategies that individuals can adopt independently. One approach is journaling, where individuals can document their thoughts, feelings and actions. The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique encourages staying present by engaging the sensesidentifying things seen, touched, heard, smelled and felt. Different breathing techniques help in relaxation, while self-affirmation, practised by looking in the mirror, fosters positivity.

Creating a gratitude list, praying and following hobbies like gardening or cooking contribute to a positive outlook. Additionally, maintaining social connections by reaching out to friends and supportive groups plays a crucial role. Its important to note that the effectiveness of these strategies varies among individuals, and a personalised combination tailored to specific needs often yields the most beneficial results in managing emotional intensity.

Are there any misconceptions about the relationship between positive thinking and mental health?

A common misconception about positive thinking is the belief that it requires maintaining a positive outlook at all times, even in the face of painful or heartbreak situations. This misconception is often fueled by messages that emphasise good vibes only and suggest that being happy is the only acceptable emotion, labelling expressions of vulnerability as signs of weakness. This phenomenon is associated with toxic positivity, where the projection of constant happiness overlooks the complexity of human emotions.

Suppressing genuine feelings, especially in the context of mental illness, can result in increased frustration, distress, self-criticism, feelings of isolation, denial of problems and an exacerbation of the stigma surrounding mental health issues, deeming them unacceptable or abnormal. Its crucial to acknowledge and validate a range of emotions for a more holistic approach to mental well-being.

For individuals facing mental health issues, can they incorporate positive thinking as a way to feel better?

Individuals grappling with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, mood affective disorders and psychosis often contend with disorganised and irrational thought patterns. Cultivating positive thinking in such circumstances can be challenging. However, therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), reality testing therapy, exposure therapy, and occasionally medical interventions are crucial, especially in severe cases. These therapeutic methods are designed to assist individuals in recognising distorted thinking patterns and beliefs, actively challenging them and fostering the development of more balanced and healthier thoughts.

By addressing the root causes and providing coping mechanisms, these interventions play a vital role in supporting individuals on their journey towards improved mental well-being.

Can maintaining a positive mindset help prevent or alleviate certain mental health issues?

Yes, maintaining a positive mindset plays a significant role in both preventing and alleviating certain mental health issues. It contributes to stress reduction, the development of healthy coping strategies, the building of resilience, mood regulation, enhanced motivation and facilitates engagement in daily activities and the pursuit of goals. Individuals with a positive mindset are more likely to seek solutions rather than adopt a victim mentality. Furthermore, those with a positive mindset tend to approach illness with progressiveness and insight, in contrast to individuals with a more pessimistic outlook. However, its crucial to recognise that a positive mindset is not the sole solution for mental health issues.

Mental health is complex and influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and life experiences. Given the variability of mental health challenges among individuals, professional help such as therapy or counselling may be necessary. Additionally, a balanced and realistic positive mindset involves acknowledging and addressing negative emotions instead of suppressing them. This holistic approach contributes to a more comprehensive understanding and management of mental well-being.

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What positive thoughts do to the mind - The Kathmandu Post

Black Stars of Ghanas Mohammed Kudus and England-born Nigerian defender Gabriel Osho were included in the Premier League Team of the Week.

The duo made the cut published by football facts and statistics website, whoscored.com.

Kudus continued his impressive form in front of goal as he netted West Ham Uniteds 2-0 win against Manchester United.

Kudus doubled West Ham Uniteds lead against Manchester United in the 78th minute with a superb solo effort.

It was his sixth goal in 15 Premier League games for the Hammers.

Also, he has now scored four goals in four games in all competitions for David Moyes side.

Also Read: U-20 WWCQ: FIFA Moves Falconets, Burundi Clash To Dar Es Salaam

After the game, the former Ajax star was named West Hams Man of the Match.

On his part, Osho played a key role for newly promoted Luton who edged Newcastle United 1-0.

Going into the game against Newcastle United which Osho played 90 minutes, Luton had lost their last three fixtures.

The 25-year-old has made seven appearances in the Premier League and has a goal to his name.

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Kudus, Osho Make Premier League Team Of The Week - Complete Sports

For me, Jan.1 is like a sip of ice-cold stream water during a grueling hike it brings a surge of renewal, energy, and inspiration for whats next. Ive celebrated the New Year in various ways from champagne and clubs to tea and 4 a.m. world peace meditations. In the end, these are three of my favorite ways to start the New Year.

The first tradition is Write It All Down. Start by writing headings for each area of life (finance, career, relationships, adventure/fun, etc.). Under each heading, write down everything that you want to achieve, from tiny tasks (like buy a brown belt) to super-stretch goals (like travel to 10 countries). The key is to write it all down because we are 42% more likely to accomplish things when we do. To be honest, I usually dont even look at this list until the following year, yet a lot of things get checked off, even when Im not consciously focusing on it.

I love this practice because its a structure that is simple and easy to do. I have over 10 years of some version of this tradition in a Big Red Journal that I only pull out at the New Year. Its an easy way to track my desires and accomplishments over time that doesnt create pressure, overwhelm, or fear of failure.

The next New Year tradition is Theme Your Year. Think about the essence of what you want to experience or create in the next year. Roll it around in your head for a few weeks until you land on a word or phrase that captures it. Then, bring your theme to life. Create a playlist or piece of art that captures your word or phrase. Put reminders of it on sticky notes. Write about why its important to you. Share with your inner circle. Experience what its like to bring that essence into your year. Some examples from my clients are: Root & Rise; Cultivate Connection; and Let Go.

This tradition helps us clarify what really matters. And creatively bringing the concepts to life through music, art, journaling and sharing helps engage the right and left sides of the brain. I love this tradition because its a simple and playful way to set the course for the year ahead.

The final tradition I practice is Permission to Hibernate. The older I get, the more I lean into the cycles of nature. Even though society tells us that we should grind from coffee to wine, and that you can sleep when youre dead, I disagree. Theres a reason all living things go through cycles. Theres intelligence in periods of high activity followed by periods of rest.

Winter offers an invitation to slow down. To get under a blanket and watch snow fall. To read a book or write in a journal. To lay down in bed and sleep more. Especially after the flurry of the holidays, I lean into slowness and ease whenever I can in January. It is a time to restore, refuel, and reflect. So, while others may find joy and meaning in re-upping gym memberships and doubling down on fewer desserts, my best way to start the New Year is by carving out pockets of slowness, of quiet, of comfort and ease.

I love this unconventional tradition to opt out of the hustle for a while. After getting past the unfamiliarity and the persistent urge of I should be doing something productive, resting and slowing down have been the best ways for me to fuel an impactful and growth-filled year.

What do you hope for in 2024? If it feels like a stretch to create it, Id love to hear from you. Submit your question below, and Ill offer practical and evidence-based ways to get started.

Tiffany Skidmore is a mental health and life coach who specializes in anxiety. Email your questions and feedback to tiffany@tiffanyskidmore.com or submit them anonymously at tinyurl.com/thelifecoach. Visit tiffskidmore.com to learn more about Tiffany and her work.

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The Life Coach: Start 2024 right with these New Years traditions - Longmont Times-Call