With the start of the new year, many people are met with their renewed commitment to their own health lifestyle and wellness. The start of a new year is the perfect moment to embark on your health and wellness journey and truly prioritize it. Whether your lifestyle goals involve improving your diet, increasing your physical activity, or focusing on your mental wellbeing, we have pulled together some tips on how you can kickstart a healthier lifestyle at the start of this year.
Here are 6 Ways To Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle in the New Year!
1 – Set specific goals that you know are realistic for your lifestyle.
First, start by setting clear and achievable health goals that you know will make sense for you and your personal lifestyle.
When it comes to setting goals, avoid statements such as “getting healthier” and define specific objectives such as “eating more vegetables” or “moving my body for 30-minutes a day, five times a week.”
Making sure that you have measurable goals that are realistic will help you to track your progress and keep yourself motivated throughout the year.
2 – Regularly exercise and perform physical activity.
Physical activity means something different to everyone depending on your fitness level, but it is important to move your body however works best for you.
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine and staying consistent is key to maintaining your health. Find activities that you enjoy, whether it is a brisk walk, cycling, dancing, yoga, weight training, or trying out some new workout classes.
In addition to cardio activities, consider incorporating some strength training exercises that will help to improve your muscle strength and flexibility.
3 – Eat a balanced diet, while focusing on your nutrition.
Aim for a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Remember to eat in moderation and remember portion control, while doing your best to limit processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt intake.
In addition, ensure that you are eating mindfully and recognizing when you are and are not hungry. Remember, eating healthy does not mean eating boring!
Experiment with new recipes and take time to explore various healthy food options to keep your meals interesting. And most importantly, balance is key – treat yourself every so often to your favorite yummy, delicious treats!
4 – Prioritize your sleep and stress management.
Do not underestimate the importance of quality sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night which will help to rejuvenate your body and mind. Getting a good night’s rest can make or break your next day.
Also, practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in hobbies that can help to reduce stress levels and promote your mental health.
5 – Set hydration goals.
Drinking enough water is something that many people have trouble doing each day, since we can get busy and easily forget. Water helps to maintain your bodily functions, aids in digestion, and supports your overall health, so it must be prioritized.
Set some hydration goals for yourself by getting a reusable water bottle that you can keep with you throughout the day. Depending on the size of your water bottle, calculate how many you will need to finish throughout the day to hit your hydration goals, which is generally between 8-10 cups.
6 – Monitor progress and celebrate achievements.
Lastly, be sure to monitor your progress throughout the year and celebrate milestones and achievements along the way, no matter how small they are! Progress and forward movement should be recognized and will help you to continue your commitment to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.