New Year, New You

Harness that back-to-school energy to reboot your life for fall

- Lisa Kadane

REMEMBER THE EXCITEMENT OF GOING BACK TO school in September? The weeks leading up to the first day meant a trip to the mall for clothes and shoes, a new haircut, and likely a doctor visit where the past year’s growth was duly recorded.

As adults, September still feels like the start of the real new year. We’re more motivated to tackle projects, commit to a new class or even contemplate a career change. September also signals a return to regular lifestyle habits, whether that means renewing a gym membership or getting back on track with meal planning. Even though we’re busier than ever with family commitments and work deadlines, fall feels like a time when we really can do it all.

“September is like a fresh start. We’ve come off the high of the summer, we’re rejuvenated, we’re back to all these other routines — sleep routine, work routine,” says Suzanne Zilkowsky, wellness expert, health coach and founder of Vancouver Health Coach. “It’s a great time to set fitness goals and other resolutions.”

Carving out time for ourselves to stay fit, eat well, look good and nurture our friendships is even more important for our physical and mental health than it was when we were kids. So why not take some inspiration from our wonder years to harness the season’s energy? Here are eight easy “back-to-school” reboots that will reveal a new you in no time.

DOCTOR, DOCTOR

AS A KID: YOU WENT FOR AN ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM

AS AN ADULT: BE PROACTIVE WITH YOUR HEALTH BY STAYING ON TOP OF SCREENINGS