The new year is a time for fresh starts and good intentions. We often resolve to make changes to our lives, whether it's eating healthier, exercising more, or getting more sleep. But how long does it take to form a new habit?
A study by Phillippa Lally, a health psychology researcher at UCL, found that it takes an average of 66 days for a new behaviour to become automatic. However, the time can vary widely depending on the person, the habit, and the circumstances. In Lally's study, it took some people as few as 18 days to form a new habit, while others took up to 254 days.
So, what does this mean for you? If you're trying to start a new healthy habit this year, don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. It takes time and effort to form new habits, but it's possible.
One great way to start is by incorporating mindfulness into your routine. Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can help you to reduce stress, improve focus, and increase self-awareness.
And what better way to practice mindfulness than with a cup of tea? Taking the time to brew a cup of tea and savour it slowly can be a great way to de-stress and focus on the present moment.
Not only is tea good for your physical health, but it can also be beneficial for your mental health. Studies have shown that tea can help to reduce anxiety and depression, improve cognitive function, and boost mood.
So, why not make a cup of tea a part of your new healthy routine? Here are a few tips:
Choose a high-quality loose-leaf tea such as Happy Leaf! Loose-leaf tea is generally fresher and has more flavour than bagged tea.
Take the time to brew your tea properly. The steeping time will vary depending on the type of tea, so be sure to read the instructions on the package.
Find a quiet place to enjoy your tea. Avoid distractions and focus on the present moment.
Savour each sip. Pay attention to the taste, smell, and temperature of the tea.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to start a new healthy habit this year.
With a little effort and mindfulness, you can make 66 days the magic number for a happier, healthier you.
And don't forget to check out my selection of delicious and healthy teas at happyleaf.co.uk!
In addition to the tips in the blog post, here are a few other things you can do to increase your chances of success:
Set realistic goals. Don't try to change too much too fast. Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the difficulty as you progress.
Find a support system. Having someone to cheer you on can make a big difference. Talk to your friends and family about your goals and ask them for encouragement.
Reward yourself. When you reach a milestone, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you stay motivated.
With a little planning and effort, you can make 66 days the magic number for a happier, healthier you. So go ahead, brew a cup of tea, and get started!
I hope this blog post is helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
I wish you all the best in your efforts to form new healthy habits this year.
Sincerely,
Emma Happy Leaf
Link to the study by Phillippa Lally https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2009/aug/how-long-does-it-take-form-habit
