Like it or not, New Year is the time for new beginnings. Which is why it has become tradition to take stock of the year gone by and set New Year’s resolutions for the year ahead.
As dog owners, we could all learn some valuable lessons from our four-legged friends; in fact, they can inspire us to hit the coming year with resolutions that really count.
So ditch the usual intentions that fall by the wayside before January’s out, and embrace these life-changing, fulfilling habits inspired and cultivated by our canine companions.
Walk and Be Active Everyday
Many of us are far too hasty to throw money at a gym membership at the start of January, believing it’s the answer to our fitness goals. However, just getting outside for a daily walk is a much simpler and more sustainable activity that will keep you fit and active, fill your lungs with fresh air, and ensure you switch your focus away from screens and stress. By all means ramp it up to a run, do some press-ups on the park bench and make it a complete workout. Dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy – and so do we.
Be Present and Mindful
Dogs are masters of living in the moment. They don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future; they slip fully into the present moment – whether that’s bounding after the ball, snuffling through forest or snoozing between activities. This year, resolve to follow their lead and practise mindfulness. Take time each day to appreciate the small joys in life – such as the birdsong on your morning walk or a blazing sunset on a beach stroll.
Prioritise Play and Adventure
Dogs are always up for an adventure – from a simple game of fetch to a long hike in the woods, they are always ready to get out and play. Surely that should be a reminder to us, that no matter how busy and stressful life can be, we need to make time for fun activities? After all, what’s the point if we don’t make time for good times with the ones we love? So this year, resolve to prioritise play and adventure in your life. How about starting right now, and putting some time aside for a dog-friendly break?
Be Curious and Explore More
Dogs are naturally curious creatures, always eager to explore new sights and smells. Their propensity to explore can rub off and teach us to be more open-minded too, whether that’s exploring new places or embracing new experiences. Make it your year to travel to a new dog-friendly destination, step outside your comfort zone and try new hobbies and activities with your dog.
Practice Gratitude
With their wagging tails and nuzzles of affection, dogs are always grateful – for every meal, every walk, and every cuddle. Their appreciation of the simple things in life shows us it’s the little things that are important – and they shouldn’t go unnoticed. This year, practice gratitude by keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for.
Embrace Simplicity
Dogs don’t need material possessions to be happy. They find joy in the simplest things, like a belly rub or a walk in the park. This year, simplify your life by decluttering your home and focusing on what truly matters.
Build Bonds with Friends and Family
Dogs thrive on social interaction and crave companionship. Humans, on the other hand, have allowed technology to fray our interactions and relationships. So this year, strengthen your relationships with loved ones by spending quality time together. Whether it’s a family dinner, a family holiday or a simple phone call, make an effort to connect with the people who matter most.
Learning Something New
Old dogs can learn new tricks. They are always eager to learn new skills – we just need to take the time to train and nurture them. Let this be a lesson to us to keep learning, too. This year, embrace a lifelong learning mindset. Take a class, join a book club, try a new sport, or attend a workshop.
Get Outside More
Dogs love being in the Great Outdoors – whether that’s romping around rolling moors and countryside in Yorkshire, bounding along beaches in Cornwall, or foraging through forests in Northumberland. And it’s after waggy-tailed excursion that they are more restful and at peace inside. What more evidence do we need that being outside and being active is the answer to lifelong health, wellbeing and happiness? Make it your year to put your health and wellbeing first, and spend more time having fun in the fresh air with Fido.
Cultivate Unconditional Love
Ever noticed that dogs don’t hold a grudge? They love us unconditionally, regardless of our flaws, mistakes and moments of madness. Always affectionate, no matter what. So why not make this the year to love others unconditionally, just as they are? In the same way your furry friend loves you.
Bound into the New Year with a Dog Friendly Break
With their unwavering loyalty, boundless energy, and zest for life, our dogs can guide us towards a happier and more balanced life. So take a deep breath, embrace the journey, and let your furry friend be your guide to a paw-sitive year! Start your year off right with a getaway to dog friendly locations such as Devon, Cornwall and Cumbria. Want something to make your getaway even more relaxing? Take a look at our cottages with swimming pools and hot tubs.
Check out our dog-friendly retreats and spend some quality time with your family and your four-legged friends this year.
