New year, new life. The end of one year encourages all of us to reflect on the past year and to look forward to a new start, perhaps with some improvements we can do to make our life better.
It is said that resolutions are difficult to keep, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying! Resolutions are a great way to start the year with a positive attitude. They should be derived from a desire for change and should be reasonable and actionable. It may be helpful to keep a reminder of your resolutions visible somewhere to remind you, as well as to have an accountability partner, to keep you on track with your resolutions.
If you’re at a loss for new year’s resolutions, here are six new year’s resolutions to start.
1. Eat healthier.
You’ve spent the holidays enjoying sweets and rich, sumptuous meals, so it just makes sense to turn things around and opt for healthier foods in the new year. Strive to eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meat (chicken and turkey), and healthy fats. Having a better diet can do wonders for your energy, memory, and mood, as well as keep illness at bay. Also make sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking eight glasses of water daily.
2. Get enough exercise.
It is difficult to get moving any given day, so why not try to make that a priority this year? It can seem daunting but definitely not impossible. Start with a short workout and a simple activity, such as going for a brisk walk or dancing to your favorite party song. Ask your doctor before starting any exercise regimen, especially as you work your way up to more strenuous activities.
3. Stimulate your mind.
Find new hobbies to do and things to learn. Doing so improves memory and concentration and may also protect you from degenerative brain disease. Think of it as a mental workout! Be it knitting, learning a new language, gardening, or baking, discovering a new activity you enjoy is sure to keep your spirits up in the new year. While new activities can be a challenge, current hobbies can also keep you busy and engaged. Grab a new book, if you prefer, and read it with a nice cup of tea. Who knows, if you attend a class or a book club, you may even meet a new friend or two!
4. Stay social.
Speaking of friends, why not make it a goal to spend more time with family and friends this year? Life can get hectic with work and chores, but time flies by too fast to not make it worthwhile with happy memories. So find your tribe and go have fun!
5. Get enough sleep.
Some people think that older people need less sleep, but older people may need just as much sleep. Practice sleep hygiene, such as keeping mobile devices away, eating dinner a few hours before digestion, and keeping the bedroom dark and cozy for sleeping.
6. Make better choices.
If you’re smoking, quit. If you drink, have less alcohol. If you are on any maintenance medications, make sure to take them. Proof your house to reduce the risks of falls. Check in with your health providers: your eye doctor, your dentist, your family physician. Consult your doctor if you need any vaccines. Health is wealth, and you need to take care of yourself to enjoy life for longer.
Should you have trouble keeping you new year’s resolutions, remember that you can always start on any other day. We wish you a happy and fruitful new year!
