With the new year comes a new list of resolutions. Whether your goal this year is to eat better, exercise more, or to keep a sharp mind, here are some ways to develop a whole new you.
Healthy Eating
One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is healthier eating, and rightfully so. A balanced diet offers numerous benefits beyond weight loss. A meal regimen rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean meats can help reduce the risk of heart attack and cancer. But if you’re worried that healthy eating is too hard or too expensive, use these tips:
- Start slow. Trying to completely change your diet overnight is unrealistic and can make you want to give up early on.
- Plan ahead. Weekly meal preps or cooking with a crock pot are great time saving ways to eat healthier.
- Spend on foods that matter. Rather than purchasing the latest fad foods or diets, stock up on healthy staples and try these three tips to help prioritize your shopping on a budget.
Get Moving
Exercise is another vital part of a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity has been found to benefit both physical and mental health. It reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke and can relieve tension, anxiety, depression, and anger. If you want to make exercise a part of your “new you” routine, consider the following and remember to consult with your physician before starting any kind of exercise program.
- Something is better than nothing. Physical activity is anything that makes you move your body and burn calories. Some physical activity is better than none. Even if you just make a point of walking around the house or the yard every hour, you are getting the blood flowing and stretching your muscles.
- You don’t need a gym to get started. Don’t let the inconvenience of crowded gyms, or getting to and from a gym, discourage you. There are plenty of exercises that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Here are a few easy ones you can try at home to get you started.
Sharpen the Mind
They say a mind is a terrible thing to waste. As you age it’s more important than ever to keep your mind and body in good working order. If mental health is part of your focus for the new year, these tips can help.
- Get a good night’s sleep. Not getting enough rest can hinder your ability to think clearly, focus, and react. Here are some tips for a restful night.
- Play. Whether it’s a video game, board game, or puzzle, playing can help sharpen the mind, particularly if the activity challenges you and makes you think.
- Consider Yoga or Tai Chi. Both yoga and Tai chi have been found to promote mental health. Practicing regularly has been shown to help relieve stress, anxiety, depression and more. As a bonus they also offer physical benefits that aid muscles, joints, and balance.
It’s easy to slip into old habits, which may be why so many people end up with the same resolutions year after year. You can do it! This year, try one or all of the above and show the world a happier, healthier version of you. Next year around this time, you’ll be finding a whole new way to change your life (again) for the better. Good luck.
Resources:
http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/prevention/index.htm