New year challenges 2026

With the start of a new year comes the perfect opportunity to take on an array of fresh challenges and embrace feel-good experiences. For many of us, January can feel a little bit grey, but it can also be a great moment to reset, refocus and gently steer yourself toward habits that bring joy and fulfilment. It doesn’t need to be about reinventing yourself or setting goals that are unachievable. Instead, it can simply be about small, achievable wins that help you feel a little brighter and more grounded as winter comes to an end.  

Whether you’re looking to improve your wellbeing, explore the outdoors, learn something new or spark a fresh creative steak, here are a few ideas to help kick off your new year challenges and start 2026 off on the right foot.  

Walk a little more

Walking is an underrated form of exercise, yet it can be incredibly effective in easing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Time spent in nature especially has been shown to boost mood and reduce the tendency to dwell on negative thoughts. Even a slow wander among trees (particularly evergreens) can help lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol (our stress hormone) and improve concentration and memory.  

Trees also release natural chemicals called phytoncides, which have antimicrobial properties that may help strengthen immune system. After a festive season of mince pies, turkey-flavoured crisps and mulled wine, a gentle winter walk can feel like the perfect reset. Grab a friend (or head out solo with a hot chocolate in hand), get some fresh air and enjoy your surroundings.  

Try going vegan

Veganuary is a yearly challenge that encourages people to try a vegan lifestyle for January and, if they enjoy it, carry it on beyond the month. A plant-based diet benefits the environment, supports animal welfare and can improve long-term health. Even just reducing your meat intake instead of removing it entirely can make a difference.  

With so many alternatives available, you can easily recreate familiar flavours and textures: plant-based burgers, jackfruit (great for a pulled-pork style dish), vegan sausages, bacon, mince and more. Protein is easily replaced using beans, lentils, chickpeas, soya products, cashew nuts and pumpkin seeds.  

Worried about nutrients like vitamin B12? Many fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals, dairy-free spreads and yeast extract, can help maintain healthy levels. Start small by swapping ingredients in your usual recipes. For example, replace mince with green lentils in a shepherd’s pie. Surprisingly delicious!  

If you’re a dedicated meat eater, the idea of going fully vegan can feel daunting. Just try it for a month and see how you feel. Every little effort helps.  

Exercise at home

If you want a fitness boost but prefer staying indoors, home workouts and online classes are a great option. Yoga is especially accessible for all abilities, combining simple poses with mindful breathing to build strength, flexibility and balance. Look for beginner videos on YouTube, such as Cosmic Kids Yoga is great fun for families, or try sessions in the NHS Fitness Studio.  

Don’t underestimate the power of everyday chores either, as they’re a brilliant way of raising your heart rate. Heavy gardening, washing the car or hoovering the house can all contribute towards your daily activity goal.  

Small routines are a wonderful way to start the year. And if you miss a day? No stress. Be kind to yourself and pick it back up again tomorrow.  

Go somewhere new

Change the tone of January by filling it with things to look forward to. Challenge yourself to explore new places, try new walks and seek out new landscapes. Whether you prefer beaches, villages or cities, there’s so much to discover close to home. Travelling solo can be a liberating experience and a great way to reconnect with yourself. Or, if you’re craving company and to socialise, grab a few friends and plan a mini break in England and Wales.  

Dreaming of a hike in the Lake District? A coastal wander in Cornwall? A trip around York’s ancient city walls? Camping beneath the stars in the South Downs? Book a stay with YHA today and start daydreaming about your next adventure.  

Creative challenge

Give yourself a month-long creative project to get those juices flowing. Try a doodle a day, gather natural materials to make art or take the chance to step away from screens and enjoy a digital detox. Craft some home decor, pick up crocheting or unleash your inner star baker.  

Capture nature at its best around our hostel network – a photo, a video or even a timelapse – and share your favourites with us using the hashtags #LiveMoreYHA or #StayWithYHA. You might even see them on our social media channels. We can’t wait to discover what you create when you stay with us!