New Year… New You? Yep, it’s resolution time and that means millions of Americans take advantage of the motivation that the new year brings to make big life changes. The start of a new year is a great time to make healthy lifestyle changes, give up bad habits, and improve your well-being. If you find yourself among those who are eager to embark on a journey of self-improvement, consider making resolutions that prioritize your health and well-being. Here are five resolutions to not only kickstart your New Year but can help build a stronger healthier you in the New Year.
Lose weight and keep it off
Not surprising to find it on the list as losing weight is the top resolution made (and broken) every year. But a resolution to lose weight is one of the most important steps you can take toward better health. Losing just five to ten percent of your body weight can help lower your risk of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. While fad diets may help you lose weight fast, you’re more likely to experience successful, long-term weight loss if you have a goal of losing about one to two pounds per week.
The other resolutions on the list go hand in hand with this one.
Eat a healthy diet
Healthy eating involves both what you eat and how you eat. Getting your recommended servings of fruits and vegetables each day is important because fruits and veggies are low in calories and fat, high in fiber, and rich sources of vitamins and minerals. Foods that contain fiber keep you feeling full, which helps you lose weight.
Rather than resorting to crash diets or extreme restrictions, focus on adopting a balanced and sustainable approach to eating. Explore a range of cooking techniques and creative recipes that celebrate these food groups. It’s about choosing nourishing options that cater to your body’s needs, promoting both physical health and mental clarity, without feeling restricted.
Sit less, move more
If a couch potato lifestyle has been you, jumping right into going to a gym every day may not be a realistic goal. Making a resolution to simply add more physical activity into your daily life is more attainable. An easy way to become active is to sit less and move more. Park farther away from the entrance to the grocery store, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and exercise while you watch TV.
Any amount of physical activity has some health benefits, so if you have a few minutes, you have time to exercise. Finding time for fitness when you’re busy is easier than you may think. As you become more physically active, you’ll start to feel better over time.
Exercise is not just about shedding pounds; it’s a holistic approach to a healthier lifestyle. Make a resolution to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s brisk walks, yoga, or hitting the gym, find an activity that brings you joy. Start with achievable goals, gradually increasing the intensity as you build strength and stamina. The key is consistency, so choose activities you genuinely enjoy ensuring long-term success.
Schedule and keep your annual checkup appointment
Even if you feel healthy, be sure to visit your doctor each year for a regular checkup. Seeing your doctor each year and taking advantage of your preventive care benefits can help you stay healthy. Regular checkups and preventive screenings allow your doctor to identify minor health issues before they become bigger problems.
Take steps to reduce stress
Learning how to manage stress is an important part of taking care of yourself and maintaining good overall mental and physical health. If your stress is getting out of control, simple activities like practicing breathing exercises, going for a walk, or listening to music can help restore calm to your life. Chronic stress takes a toll on your health and well-being, so explore healthy ways to relieve stress.
Sticking to resolutions isn’t just for those with an iron will, in fact, keeping resolutions that last the full twelve months can be easy if done correctly. For those looking to live a healthier life in the new year, it is important to be clear about what steps are needed to achieve this year’s resolution.
Seize the opportunity to embark on a journey toward a healthier and happier you. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being.
Here’s to a year of positive transformations and a healthier, more vibrant you! West Tennessee Healthcare’s LIFT Wellness Center can help you achieve your goals. Located in downtown Jackson, LIFT Wellness Center is not just a gym, it’s a certified medical fitness facility. Learn more by clicking here. Join today and take a step towards keeping those healthy resolutions.
