Resource What are your goals for 2026? Print Blog by Kirsty Lambert January is the perfect time to get on top of all those jobs that we’ve been putting off in the run-up to Christmas. We’ve come up with a few tips to help you take back control of your ‘New Year to do’ list. Planning for the future It’s easy to put off writing your Will – in fact it’s estimated that around half of all UK adults don’t have a Will in place. This can create extra work and complications for loved ones after you’re gone – but there’s an easy solution. NRAS has joined forces with expert Will writers, Octopus Legacy, offering you the opportunity to write or update your simple Will for FREE. Start your FREE Will today There’s no obligation to include NRAS in your Will as part of this offer. But after you’ve taken care of your loved ones, even a small gift to NRAS will ensure that people with RA and JIA get the support, advice and information they need – now and in the future. Move more and feel better Lots of us resolve to get fit in the New Year, but we can all struggle to stay motivated after the initial burst of short-lived enthusiasm. NRAS is here to help you make exercise and activity part of your daily routine in a way that works for you. We’ve split our exercise module into short manageable sections designed to help people with RA increase their activity and fitness levels. So if it’s a been a little while since you visited our SMILE E-learning platform, or if you’ve never got round to registering why not check it out? And If you’re ready to take on a bigger challenge, we’re right behind you with that too! Take a look at our selection of runs, treks and overseas challenges and make 2026 a year to remember! Find an event Find an event Whatever your interests, we have an event to suit you, from runs to treks to adrenaline-fuelled activities, to raise funds for NRAS. If you would like to contact the Fundraising team before signing up to any event please email fundraising@nras.org.uk or call us on 01628 823 524. Banish the clutter and raise funds for NRAS If your cupboards need a clear-out or it’s time to quietly re-gift those novelty socks you got for Christmas, now is the time to reclaim your space. You can sell unwanted items on eBay and choose a % to come to NRAS. Or, if Santa didn’t bring what you were hoping for, why not treat yourself through EasyFundraising? With over 7,000 retailers who will donate to a charity of your choice when you shop online, it’s a great way to donate to NRAS without it costing you a penny. As one well-known retailer says, ‘Every little helps!’. Prioritise taking care of yourself Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical, so make time in 2026 to focus on yourself. We’ve lots of helpful tips and suggestions from mindfulness and creativity to managing your illness and building your support network. Blog 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness Blog by Nadine Garland The World Health Organisation states that wellbeing is “a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” It is easy to focus on physical wellbeing when dealing with a chronic health condition such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and […] We hope these suggestions help you take control in 2026! Questions People with RA Often Ask “I always say I’ll get fitter in the New Year, but I never stick with it. How can I make movement actually work for me in 2026?” A lot of people start January with big fitness goals and then lose momentum once the initial motivation fades. Breaking an activity down into smaller, more manageable steps so it feels achievable rather than overwhelming can help. The SMILE-RA exercise modules are designed specifically for people with RA, making it easier to build movement into your routine without aggravating symptoms. If you want something more exciting to aim for, NRAS events like runs, treks and overseas challenges can give you a clear goal to work toward and a sense of purpose behind your training. “My home feels cluttered after Christmas. Is there a way to clear space without wasting things?” Use the New Year as a chance to reset your environment in a way that feels good rather than stressful. Clearing out cupboards, re gifting unused items, or selling things you no longer need can help you reclaim space and create a calmer home. If you choose to sell items on eBay, you can even donate a percentage to NRAS, turning your decluttering into something positive for the wider RA community. If you’re treating yourself to something new, EasyFundraising lets you support NRAS at no extra cost while you shop. “I want to take better care of my mental wellbeing in 2026. Where should I start?” Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health, especially when living with a long term condition like RA. Small practices such as mindfulness, creative hobbies, gentle movement, or building a stronger support network can make a meaningful difference. NRAS has a range of mental health focused blogs and resources, including guidance on managing chronic illness emotionally and finding ways to reconnect with yourself. Starting with one or two simple habits can help you build a more balanced, grounded year. Have your own top tips and want to share them with our community? We would love to hear them, so follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X to connect with others today. Did you find this article helpful? Total likes: 0
Find an event Find an event Whatever your interests, we have an event to suit you, from runs to treks to adrenaline-fuelled activities, to raise funds for NRAS. If you would like to contact the Fundraising team before signing up to any event please email fundraising@nras.org.uk or call us on 01628 823 524.
Find an event Find an event Whatever your interests, we have an event to suit you, from runs to treks to adrenaline-fuelled activities, to raise funds for NRAS. If you would like to contact the Fundraising team before signing up to any event please email fundraising@nras.org.uk or call us on 01628 823 524.
Blog 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness Blog by Nadine Garland The World Health Organisation states that wellbeing is “a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” It is easy to focus on physical wellbeing when dealing with a chronic health condition such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and […]
Blog 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness 10 ways you can improve your mental well-being if you have a chronic illness Blog by Nadine Garland The World Health Organisation states that wellbeing is “a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” It is easy to focus on physical wellbeing when dealing with a chronic health condition such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and […]