A new wellness trend, called the “Winter Arc,” has emerged as a alternative to traditional New Year’s resolutions. The goal-setting challenge encourages individuals to utilize the cold winter months to set goals and make changes that can be achieved by January 1st.
Influencers and experts have created various approaches to the Winter Arc, but most involve utilizing the time to turn inward and focus on personal development. Participants aim to establish a routine and stick to it for a shorter period, typically 3-4 months, rather than an entire year.
Fitness expert Laura Galebe credits the Winter Arc with being transformative both mentally and physically. She recommends finding ways to make fitness “cozy and convenient” in the cold winter months, such as at-home workouts or joining a heated indoor studio.
Alex Rothstein, an exercise psychologist, advises participants to carve out time each day to work on their goals and set realistic, achievable targets. He emphasizes that it’s essential to be okay with missing a day and pick up where you left off the next day.
According to Elliot Berkman, a professor of psychology at the University of Oregon, the Winter Arc can provide positive emotions, a sense of purpose, and agency. The short-term nature of the challenge can improve motivation, as individuals know they will stop working towards their goals by January 1st.
While some experts warn against comparing short-term challenges to crash diets, others see the Winter Arc as an opportunity to establish new, healthier habits for long-term health and wellness. By making a plan to continue keeping up with your goals after the challenge ends, individuals can create lasting changes.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/winter-arc-fitness-new-years-resolutions-wellness-69c6280f52b5b62ca3eda3a808f865fb