GLL’s health and wellbeing guru Taofique Folarin has a handy list of how to feel your best this year.
Happy New Year, GLL! 2025 is THE year to celebrate everything uniquely YOU — mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re strutting into the gym, sashaying into a new skincare routine, or diving into a deep conversation about mental health, I want you to approach the year with open arms and an open heart.
Here are 12 empowering steps to help you sparkle through 2025. This isn’t just any checklist—it’s your roadmap to self-care, self-love, and unapologetic authenticity. From staying on top of your sexual health to a new fit that screams this is me, you can tackle them at your own pace, all at once, or spread them out through 2025, month by month. Grab your planner, and let’s make this year unforgettable. Because as a wise queen once said, “If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell are you gonna love somebody else?”
• Schedule a Sexual Health Check-Up
Taking charge of your sexual health is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself. Knowing your status is key — it helps you make informed choices about your health and relationships. Additionally, getting info on options like PrEP (pre- exposure prophylaxis) is a proactive step in preventing HIV. A visit to a trusted clinic like 56 Dean Street
can provide you with expert advice, testing, and support in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
• Try a New Fitness Class or
Activity
Explore something beyond your usual routine — like yoga, pilates,
a group fitness class, or a dance class—to connect with like-minded individuals and keep your workouts fresh and exciting. It’s also an excellent way to celebrate your body and its capabilities.
• Revamp Your Skincare Routine
Your skin is more than just a barrier
— it’s your body’s largest organ and reflects your overall health. Developing a skincare regimen tailored to your needs helps address concerns like dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity. Most importantly, skincare is self-care. Take the time to nourish your skin, boost your confidence, and feel radiant.
• Host a Mental Health Check-
In with Yourself or a Friend
Take some time to reflect on your emotions, talk with trusted friends,
or seek support through therapy, counselling, or even a life coach. These options can provide tools
for growth, resilience, and clarity. Prioritising your mind is an investment in your overall happiness and success. • Commit to Hydration Goals Staying hydrated enhances energy levels, improves skin health, and
aids digestion. It’s a simple yet transformative habit for overall well- being. So grab a tall glass of water, I’m thirsty.
• Participate in a Pride or LGBTQ+ Community Event
Connecting with the LGBTQ+ community is more than just finding your tribe — it’s about celebrating the diversity that makes our community so vibrant. By attending events, joining groups, or volunteering, you may create meaningful relationships and contribute to advocacy efforts that promote equality and visibility. • Plan a Stress-Free Day forYourself
Taking time to unwind and relax reduces stress and may prevent burnout. Treat yourself to a self-care day—read, meditate, or enjoy a pamper day at the spa.
• Explore Meditation or Mindfulness Practices
Meditation and mindfulness are powerful tools for nurturing your mental and emotional well-
being. They help you slow down,
stay present, and develop a deeper awareness of your thoughts and feelings. Whether you practice for five minutes or an hour, in a group or alone, they create a space to recharge and reconnect with yourself.
• Refresh Your Wardrobe
Your style is a form of self- expression. Embrace clothing that feels true to you and aligns with your confidence and individuality, allowing you to express your authenticity.
• Set a New Personal Fitness Goal
Whether running a marathon, losing weight, or building muscle, a goal provides clear focus and a sense
of achievement. The rewards go beyond the finish line. Achieving a health goal can lead to increased confidence and pride in your body’s abilities. Whether big or small, every step forward is a victory, reminding you that consistent effort leads to lasting change.
• Volunteer or Support an LGBTQ+ Charity
Contributing to your community is a powerful way to create positive change while enriching your sense of purpose and connection. When you give back — whether through volunteering, fundraising, or advocacy — you help uplift others while reinforcing the values of compassion and solidarity.
• Book a Professional Massage or Body Treatment
Regular body care alleviates tension, enhances circulation, and fosters
a deeper connection with your physical self in a profoundly relaxing way. Incorporating regular body care into your routine isn’t just a treat — it’s an investment in your health and happiness, helping you feel your best inside and out.
Give Taofique a follow @TaofiqueFolarin
