You’ve probably made numerous New Year’s resolutions in the past that have gone unfulfilled. Haven’t we all? For some reason, at the beginning of each year, we make these unrealistic resolutions to better ourselves only to end up disappointed and depressed when we aren’t successful. Hopefully you haven't done that already this year. Resolving to lose ridiculous amounts of weight in an unhealthy attempt for perfection is just a great way to set yourself up for dissappointment.That said, we are big believers in taking the time to reflect on the past year, reevaluating where you are and setting goals for the year ahead. In fact, this is something we do frequently throughout the year.
Instead, we recommend seeking more realistic goals that lead to a healthier, more peaceful life. Starting your year out with some more attainable goals can help you accomplish all those gigantic, unbelievable goals. As you go through your year, you can increase your sense of strength and accomplishment. Momentum can be a powerful force.
So, why not try these New Year’s resolutions for a healthier, happier, accomplished you!
Get Moving. Incorporate activities into your day that keep you in motion. Strive for 30 minutes of activity each day. You can take a walk, ride your bike, dance around the kitchen or even join in a game of softball or frisbee in the backyard with the family. Take the stairs and avoid the elevator or if you are working from home, set a goal of going up and down your stairs 10 times a day more than you normally do. Park in that one space at work no one else wants—the one farthest from the front door. Mix it up and keep it fun! You’ll feel great doing it and it won’t be long before you notice the results.
Tweak your diet. You don't have to make huge changes to see results. Make small, yet meaningful changes to your diet. Reduce sodium intake by opting for low or no-sodium foods. Sodium contributes to high blood pressure and causes that familiar, uncomfortable bloating we have all experienced.
You may also want to add antioxidants to your diet to help fight cancer, inflammation and heart disease. Potatoes, beans, cherries, apples, plums, and even chocolate contain antioxidants. Yum!
Toss out the white bread and pasta and switch to whole grain breads, pasta, rice and cereals. Along with assisting with weight management, whole grains help reduce the risk of stroke, type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and high blood pressure as well as other health issues.
And, of course, increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables provide us with all those necessary vitamins and minerals our bodies need to function and look their best.
ALWAYS(and we mean ALWAYS!) wear sunscreen. Over time, the sun’s harmful rays cause wrinkles, blotchiness, brown spots, and yes, skin cancer, even in the winter! Do yourself a favor and commit to wearing sunscreen every time you step outdoors. Your soft, supple, blemish-free skin will thank you!
Reserve some ME time. We are constantly on the go with work and family. Our lives are so busy. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and exhausted. Your most important New Year’s Resolution must be to take care of yourself. Go ahead and reserve some time to relax and rejuvenate at the spa. Read a book in a quiet space. Take a bath. Take a detour on your way home some for some extra ME time. Do whatever you need to do to stay grounded. Commit to treating yourself the way you deserve to be treated.
Stay connected. Not to your social media accounts, but to the people who mean the most to you and people you enjoy spending time with. Last year was a year of isolation and while many struggled with the constant togetherness of quarantine and working from home, others had too much alone time. It's so easy to simply withdrawl for those living alone or from sheer overwhelm, regardless of the trigger. This is simply not healthy for your heart, your soul, your body or your mind. Call that friend you haven't talked to in a long time. Write a letter to someone-maybe even one of forgiveness. Go out to lunch(of course at a socially safe distance for the time being ;)) Ask someone to take a walk with you. Reach out to that neighbor who is is an empty-nestor for the first time or a single mom. Connect. Make a difference for someone else and yourself while finding your balance between alone-time and staying connected.
Take time to evauate or develop your faith. No matter what your chosen beliefs are, your spirit, your brain, your body, the people and world around you will benefit when you have hope. Listen to an inspiring podcast. Visit or watch an online service.
Turn your devices(including your tv) off an hour earlier each night. Just like our phones, tablets, and computers, the TVs of today have the stimluating blue light behind them. This reduces your brains ability to quiet down efficiently and effects the quality of your sleep directly. Doing this will also help to reduce stress which can effect blood pressure, pain management, focus and so much more.
Commit to some or all of these sensible, realistic resolutions and you will enjoy a safe, healthy, prosperous 2021!
You can always consult with a wellness/life coach to help you create a wellness program just for you! CLICK HERE
*As with all of our education, information and inspiration, we recommend that you research any suggestions you choose to implement. You do so strickly by your choice. When in doubt, consult a physician or appropriate professional. Your health and well-being are in your hands. Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey.