A Fresh Start: 5 Little Changes You Can Make This 2026

The beginning of a new year always feels like a fresh start — an opportune time to reinvent ourselves. However, the “new year, new me” mindset can sometimes feel a little daunting, especially when we put so much pressure on ourselves. 

Instead of these big New Year’s resolutions, we can start small with little positive changes that improve ourselves and not completely overhauling who we are. These can be simple but meaningful actions that make us feel good about ourselves.

If you’re craving a little change for 2026, here are five ideas from Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood:

Photo credit: Riverside BIA

Start with new intention.

Many of us tend to feel pressured into making new year’s goals or resolutions – but maybe just setting your intention for is best for you and thinking about some small things to tackle this year could work! Our local wellness centre Oma Chiropractic and Wellness‘ 2026 newsletter is all about ‘moving with intention into 2026’ with wellness tips, workshops, and their popular annual fundraiser ‘Love Yourself’ (Feb 28th – in support of Nellie’s Shelter) – you don’t want to miss it!

E-NEWS: Moving with Intention in 2026

Photo credit: UNTITLED by Flaunt Boutique

Get a new haircut.

Sometimes, a fresh new ‘do is all it takes to give us that extra boost of confidence. Whether it’s a subtle chop or something more drastic like a bold new colour, Riverside has many incredible salons with hairstylists you can trust to get the job done, such as UNTITLED by Flaunt Boutique (792 Queen St E), Glassbox Barbershop (781 Queen St E) and Album Hair (639 Queen St E).

Photo credit: The Vintage Hall

Refresh your wardrobe.

Riverside is home to many amazing independent vintage clothing stores like The Vintage Hall (754 Queen St E), Fevers Vintage (732 Queen St E) and the recently opened Coffee and Clothing (734 Queen St E)! We even do our own Riverside Vintage Crawl. Experiment with your personal style this year. That’s the best part about fashion. With that said, cue fitting room makeover montage!

BLOG: Entering The New Season in Style: Riverside Vintage Crawl – Fall 2025 Edition Highlights

Photo credit: Bonjour Brioche

Go on solo dates.

While it’s always great to spend quality time with our loved ones, a solo date every now and then is just as recharging. Enjoy freshly baked pastries at Bonjour Brioche (812 Queen St E), try Mediterranean cuisine at Hume Restaurant (782 Queen St E), go shopping for K-fashion at Ran’s Closet (747 Queen St E), the list goes on. Head over to Riverside and go on a solo adventure in the neighbourhood!

Photo credit: Broadview Hot Yoga

Embark on your wellness journey.

Trying to be more active during the coldest time of the year seems like an uphill battle, but it’s not an impossible task! There are plenty of ways to do that in Riverside: a spin class at RISE Cycle (672 Queen St E), strength training at La Femme Strong (655 Queen St E) or a hot yoga sesh at Broadview Hot Yoga (635 Queen St E), just to name a few.

BLOG: Wellness in the Winter: How To Stay Active in Toronto’s Riverside This Season

For the full list of businesses in Riverside, browse through the Riverside BIA Online Directory on our website — we have 100+ members in our BIA!

Check out the Riverside Blog regularly and follow @riverside_bia on Instagram for updates on fun things to do in the neighbourhood!

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