The New Year is here which means we are planning our resolutions and setting goals. Here are 5 things you should do to start your year off right!
Get Moving
Even if you just go on a short walk, try to get moving everyday. Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it plays a huge role in mental health as well. When you exercise, your brain releases happy chemicals that improve mood. Start small with a 10 minute walk a day- it doesn’t have to be a huge change to start. FInd a type of exercise you enjoy and stick with it.
Drink Plenty of Water
The standard recommendation for water intake is half your weight in ounces. Drinking lots of water is good for your skin, digestion, and muscle health. Try cutting beverages heavy with sugar, such as sodas or heavily flavored coffees. It is not that you can’t drink them at all, but try to drink them less frequently and really focus on water intake. If you are one of those people who don’t like the flavor (or lack thereof) of water, try adding some of the flavoring powder or Mio drops to encourage more water intake.
Say Yes to Protein, Healthy Fats, and Complex Carbs
There is no need to track everything you eat, but try to be conscious of making sure you get plenty of the three things listed above. Protein helps you build muscle and this is prominent in meats, greek yogurt, beans, and most nuts. Healthy fats and complex carbs both give your body energy. Healthy fats include nuts, nut butters (ex.peanut butter), fish, dark chocolate, etc. COmplex carbs include sweet potatoes, quinoa, etc. A quick google search will reveal longer lists of examples of these types of foods. Try not to deprive yourself of simple pleasures along the way. You do not need to have a strict diet to be healthy.
Stop Staying Up to Watch One More Episode or Read One More Chapter.
Sleep is often overlooked, but is a hugely important part of overall health. Sleep is your body’s chance to recharge. Be strict with yourself on this. Things that can help you fall asleep more easily include not drinking any more liquids an hour before bed, stop looking at your phone 30 minutes before bed, and sticking to a sleep schedule so your body becomes accustomed to going to bed and waking up at certain times.
Set Goals for Yourself.
It can be hard to be motivated for anything when specific goals are not set. As cheesy as new years resolutions can be, having something to physically work towards is more efficient at keeping you on track and motivated. This applies to all arenas of life, but a simple place to start could be setting goals for the four things listed above.
Happy New Year! Make 2023 the best year yet by investing in the most valuable thing you can- yourself!
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