New Years Resolutions for Good Health

The New Year is a time to reflect on your goals and changes you need to make in your life to achieve these goals. New Years Resolutions can be a project, reforming a habit, a personal goal, or just a new way of thinking or behaving. Here are a few ideas for resolutions to make you healthier throughout 2013…

1. Get Moving – Exercise isn’t just for staying in shape or losing weight.  Just 30 mins of walking daily can reduce the risk for a wide range of diseases, incl cancer and heart disease. Many of us live very sedentary lives, sitting at a desk, in the car, or on the couch, putting us at risk for disease. RESOLVE TO “MOVE” AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PER DAY – this can be going to the gym, walking the dog, playing frisbee with the kids, going for a bike ride, or swimming at the beach.
2. Half Greens– Many people want to “eat better” but what does this mean and how do you do it?  A vague resolution is likely one that you won’t keep.  Make your “dietary” resolutions as specific as possible.  A good general rule to healthy eating that is pretty easy to follow is to get plenty of fruits and vegetables.  Don’t worry about counting servings. RESOLVE TO HAVE FRUITS & VEGETABLES MAKE UP AT LEAST HALF OF YOUR PLATE for every meal.
3. Treat Yourself – Another specific way to “eat better” is to cut down on the junk food. Which will naturally allow you to bring in more healthful foods. You don’t have to avoid treats completely – the key is moderation! RESOLVE TO TREAT TREATS AS TREATS. This can be done by allowing yourself a treat on the weekend as a reward for going treat-free during the week.  Or only allowing yourself to eat treats that you’ve taken the time to make yourself.
4. “Me” Time– Many people’s lives are hectic these days, with obligations from work, family and friends.  Our own needs are often neglected, contributing to rising stress levels and feelings of dissatisfaction. RESOLVE TO SET ASIDE 30 MINUTES OF “ME TIME” EVERY DAY. Schedule it (at the same time every day) and let those around you know that you are not to be interrupted. This is your time to do whatever you want for yourself!
5. Laugh Out Loud– Laughter has been proven time and again to be great medicine!  Laughter triggers chemicals in the brain that make you happier and more relaxed, and a full belly laugh helps you get rid of muscle tension. RESOLVE TO LAUGH OUT LOUD EVERY DAY. Start a laughing club with friends/family where you share jokes and stories. Also look into stand-up comedian DVD’s, funny TV shows ( I love Three’s Company!) and comedic books or comic strips.
6. Straighten Up– So many of us have muscle tension or pain in the shoulders, neck, and lower back. Many of these problems can be prevented through proper posture. RESOLVE TO KEEP A STRAIGHT POSTURE. Check yourself in the mirror – good posture should see a straight line downward from your ear to your shoulder to your hip, to your knees. Use reminders like checking your email/phone to do a check-in on your posture and straighten up.
7. Follow a Theme – Instead of a specific resolution, you may want to just follow a “theme” for the year.  Examples of themes may include: openness, joy, calmness, solitude, grounded, carefree, tuning in, etc.For example, if your theme is “joy”, make sure that everything you do in 2013 helps to cultivate joy in your life. When you have a decision to make, big or small, ask yourself “which brings me the most joy.”