It's great that you're interested in developing healthy habits for the new year! There are many ways to improve your overall health and well-being, and small changes in your daily routine can add up to a big impact.
The calendar has flipped to 2023, and without a gradual transition, it can set you up for failure, because one of the biggest challenges we all face when tackling resolutions is starting off with everything we’ve got, but then having motivation can quickly run down.
If we start taking small steps now, we can make the transition more gradual, making it easier to incorporate changes into our routine and stick with them.
Research shows that small achievements signal the reward circuitry in our brains, releasing “feel-good” chemicals and making us feel more confident, boosting our self-esteem. So while these habits may seem like no-brainers, mastering them now can make a huge difference in your motivation level in February.
So what are some small goals we can begin with that will help us jump-start our New Year's health goals?
Here are six ideas to get you started, pick one to kick off, and then add another habit each week this month. Don’t forget to acknowledge your accomplishments!
Eat a healthy diet
Focus on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals and snacks, especially superfoods.
Superfoods are the healthiest way to help our intake of all the essentials for our bodies to perform at their best.
They're the most nutritionally dense foods on the planet, and have often been used for thousands of years by indigenous people to heal the mind and body, and is seen as nature’s medicine.
In a world where we're constantly exposed to toxins and where our bodies need to protect themselves from stress, superfoods are the ideal companion to keep you strong and always healthy.
Start here, there's no turning back!
Stay hydrated
Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for 8-8 ounces of water per day, or more if you are physically active.
Get enough sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help you feel rested.
Exercise regularly
Exercising regularly is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.
Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity, according to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
Practice stress management techniques
Find ways to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, music and art therapy, aromatherapy, or yoga.
Limit alcohol and tobacco use
Remember, it's important to make realistic changes for you. Start small and gradually work your way up to more challenging goals.
Master these simple habits this month, and tackling those New Year’s resolutions will be much easier.
We’re committed to bringing solutions that simplify healthy living, that can help us feel better and live a longer, happier life, and in saying that, life is precious and meant to be enjoyed.
Remember you can always get in touch with us if you have any questions, it’s as easy as 1,2,3!
Enjoying the journey makes everything so much easier.
Here’s to a happy and healthy 2023!