Slowing Down to Move Forward
As this year draws to a close, it is tempting to push through and start planning what is next. But from my perspective, one of the most powerful things you can do at the end of the year is to slow down.
Rest and recovery are not indulgent. They are physiological necessities that support both your physical and mental health. A body and mind that are constantly “on” remain in a state of stress, making it harder to think clearly, regulate your appetite (hello sweet, salty, carby snacks!), digest and absorb nutrients effectively, get a good night's sleep, have the energy to get through the day, or follow through on those healthy habits you are working so hard to implement.
Creating space to rest allows the nervous system to settle and gives your body the chance to recover from the demands of the year. You will also likely find your energy returns, and clarity follows.
This time of year can be a great opportunity to reconnect. Whether that is enjoying unhurried moments with loved ones, or choosing some quiet time in solitude, if that is what your body and mind are craving. Both connection and stillness play an important role in supporting emotional wellbeing and stress regulation.
This is also an ideal time of year for you to reflect on what went well in 2025. Before heading into the new year, and setting yourself new goals, take a moment to acknowledge your highlights and achievements from 2025, even the small ones. What have you achieved this year? What are you most proud of? Consistency, resilience, and showing up when it was hard? These all matter more than perfection.
Reflection can also be gentle and simple. You might ask yourself:
What habits supported me this year?
When did I feel my best?
What will I carry forward into 2026?
What didn't serve me?
What drained my energy or time?
What can I leave behind in 2025?
These answers can offer far more guidance than any rigid plan or external rule.
Goals that stick do not come from pushing harder or doing more. (More on this in next week's blog.) They come from understanding your patterns, respecting your capacity and where you are at in your stage of life, and working with your body rather than against it. When we allow time for rest and reflection, we create a stronger foundation for the year ahead. One that is built on self-awareness and understanding your body, compassion and respecting your capacity, and intention rather than urgency. This can support you to set goals that are realistic and sustainable in the long term.
Sometimes, the healthiest way to prepare for what is to come next is to pause. And give your body permission to fully catch up.
Are you looking for someone to support you with your 2026 health and wellness goals?
Consider booking in a 1:1 Clinical Nutrition appointment where together we can develop a personalised nutrition plan that supports your unique health goals. This incudes dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and prescription of practitioner-only supplements when needed.
Katie practices at: Uprise Health, 136 Lennox Street, Richmond, 3121, Victoria.
Appointments: Face-to-face and Telehealth available (Australia wide)
Contact: admin@katiehopcraft.com.au
If you have any questions or need personalised guidance, feel free to reach out.
The information provided in this blog is for your personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. It should not be considered as medical or professional advice. We recommend you consult with a GP or other healthcare professional before taking or omitting to take any action based on this blog. While the author uses best endeavours to provide accurate and true content, the author makes no guarantees or promises and assumes no liability regarding the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the information presented. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this blog are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this blog is done at your own risk.