The Winter Arc: A Proven Strategy for Transformative Change
As we march towards the final days of the year, health and fitness influencers say there’s no finer time for transformative change.
The viral TikTok "winter arc" trend champions the adoption of a disciplined wellness routine that ensures you’ll feel and look your best by the first day of 2025 — and doing it right could mean losing weight without all the pressure of a New Year’s resolution.
Why Winter?
Weight loss coach Kelly B. Story told The Post that a winter arc is “a short period dedicated specifically to making your goals for the next year your top priority.” Most agree that it spans from October 1 through January 1.
Story explained that when daylight dwindles during the cooler months of the year, we tend to have more time to dedicate to ourselves: “During a season where solitude is more common, it is a very convenient time to set your sights on the things you want to accomplish to improve your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.”
Crushing Weight Loss Goals
Story says being proactive about self-care is one way to beat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which affects about 5% of US adults, while another 10% to 20% suffer milder winter blues.
Her own winter arc strategy helps her wake up with a purpose and have something substantial to strive towards, and she noted that it boosts self-esteem and curbs stress.
Steps for a Successful Winter Arc
- Write out clear goals that you can check off every day
- Wake up early
- Have a structured program
- Set nonnegotiables for yourself
- Banish negative self-talk
Overcoming Setbacks
Story says that most people who embark on a winter arc start strong but experience setbacks around the four-week mark when the excitement of goal setting wears off.
“Discipline is a superpower, and when you can actively tap into it when you hit the wall, the spark and excitement will always return,” she explained.
Navigating Holiday Stressors
Story offered up ways to navigate family stressors and unhealthy temptations in ways that support your winter arc: “Ask yourself beforehand, ‘What is in my control?’ and ‘What actions can I take to enjoy my holiday experience?’ while not giving up on what is important to me.”
Conclusion
By embracing the winter arc and focusing on self-care, you can set yourself up for success and achieve transformative change. With discipline and intention, you can overcome setbacks and reach your goals, feeling and looking your best by the first day of 2025.
FAQs
Q: What is a winter arc?
A: A winter arc is a short period dedicated specifically to making your goals for the next year your top priority.
Q: Why is winter an ideal time for a winter arc?
A: When daylight dwindles during the cooler months of the year, we tend to have more time to dedicate to ourselves, making it a convenient time to set goals for self-improvement.
Q: Can a winter arc help me lose weight?
A: Yes, a winter arc can be an effective way to lose weight, especially when combined with a structured program and self-care routine.
Q: How can I stay motivated during a winter arc?
A: Write out clear goals, have a structured program, and banish negative self-talk to stay motivated and on track.
