Touching Grass: Gentle Intentions For The Year

Every year as December winds down, I start to think about what my resolutions will be for the upcoming year. Not that I am a big fan of that word; it seems a little extreme. Being resolute about doing (or not doing) something and failing can carry tremendous guilt. What I really want to consider is how I would like the new year to look. What do I want to focus on? What will keep me happy and healthy?

This year I decided to take advantage of the wisdom of my newfound friend ChatGPT. We had developed a relationship over the year, thanks to my advice-seeking on everything from critiquing my writing to putting together a succulent arrangement, and I felt there could be enough insight there for some sound recommendations. It came up with a surprisingly relevant list which it titled My 2026 Intentions (I swear sometimes it reads my mind). There were, however, a few I added on my own.

I didn’t come up with the “touch grass every day” motto but added it to AI’s suggestions, and it definitely feels like the most important. The original concept stems from social media and gaming communities. It serves as a reminder to step away from our phones and computers and spend time outside each day. But for me, it goes beyond that. In retirement, I spend many days writing and reading, and the day can easily get away from me before I have a chance to go outside, which makes this of great consequence in my life. Of course, the saying is a metaphor; I don’t always physically touch grass, especially in Arizona where real grass can sometimes be hard to find. But playing golf, taking a walk, or even just sitting on the patio feels critical to my mental health.

There is solid science behind this. Studies show that natural environments reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. We’ve also learned that sunlight triggers the production of serotonin, which helps regulate mood—perhaps one reason rainy days so often bring us down. In addition, sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, a deficiency that can contribute to depression. And of course, when I add exercise, the benefits multiply. This intention feels essential—but it isn’t the only one guiding me into the new year.

Another important one (suggested by AI) is to take one news/social media–free day each week. I have chosen to do this each Sunday. I don’t completely disconnect from technology (not yet anyway), but just staying away from news and everyone’s opinion on it has been a breath of fresh air. It has inspired me to consider putting my phone and laptop into my desk drawer and disconnecting completely for that day. I have just recently become familiar with the word doomscrolling. The term refers to the compulsive, excessive consumption of negative news or social media content, often leading to anxiety, depression, and poor sleep. While I don’t exactly fit into this category, the idea is still a scary one.

The remainder of my carefully curated goals falls under three categories:

I have more specific goals for Health & Body — walk 2+ miles 5 days a week, strength train 3 days, and do yoga once a week. But for the most part, ChatGPT was right on target with what would make the year ahead fulfilling. Even though we’re only nearing the end of the first month, I have a good feeling about where things are headed. I usually know pretty quickly what will work for me and what won’t, and so far, it all seems to fit.

I am curious to know what you think of today’s post—what are you hoping this year to bring? Are you using ChatGPT, or are you unnerved by it? Any other thoughts? Comment below: