If there’s anything we learned in 2021, it is to not take our health for granted. Let’s make 2022 a year where we focus on improving our lifestyle for the sake of our health. Make a New Year’s resolutions list that is easy, attainable, and can help you make better health choices every single day. To give you a head start, we’ve listed down 6 simple, manageable resolutions that will improve your mental and physical health. Even if you stick with just two or three of them year-round, you will become a much healthier version of yourself.
Stop delaying that doctor/dentist visit
This is going to be the year where you’re going to prioritize your health above other things. There is always going to be too much to do in too little time, but stop putting your health on the backburner. Getting your health checked at the right time is really important. Stop postponing your doctor’s appointments and resolve it right away. Get an annual checkup done at your primary care clinic and stay updated on all your vaccinations. Whether it’s just a simple dental checkup or a blood pressure test, make sure it’s on your calendar.
Go to bed early, wake up early
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy and stress-free is getting adequate sleep. When you go to bed early and wake up early, it’s unbelievably beneficial. Studies suggest that people who go to bed earlier reduce their risk of diseases, and have better control of their weight. Lack of sleep can cause your body to release cortisol, a stress hormone that triggers your heart to work harder. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep can boost your immune system, prevent weight gain, reduce anxiety, improve your memory, and more. And if you haven’t been sleeping that much, it can be difficult to incorporate an extra hour or two into your sleep cycle all of a sudden. Consider going to bed just 10 minutes earlier each night. Once those 10 minutes become routine, add another 10, and so on, until you reach your goal of seven or eight hours of sleep each night.
Start Stretching
If there’s one truth about stretching, it’s that we all should do it. Include stretching in your New Year’s resolution. Stretching not only improves your flexibility but also improves blood circulation, posture, reduces stress and body aches, decreases chances of injuries and tension headaches, and more. Stretching for just a few minutes every day can allow you to keep your normal range of motion throughout your life. If you’re physically active, it may be best to do your stretches after you work out. Otherwise, try incorporating these stretches as soon as you wake up in the morning to help improve your flexibility and ward off muscular tension and poor posture in the future.
Drink more water
Drinking sufficient water is one of the first steps you can take for your health. Our body is 70% water and drinking enough of it is extremely important. Proper hydration can regulate your body temperature, maintain blood pressure, boost skin health, promote weight loss, and more. Start by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up. Do this every day, and before your day even starts, you’ve already accomplished something healthy for your body.
Start reading food labels
Reading nutrition facts behind your packaged foods is a great addition to your healthy New Year’s resolution list. Be mindful of what goes inside your body. The key to improving your diet is to focus on being aware of what you’re eating; you’ll start to recognize your body needs. When you’re out grocery shopping, inculcate the habit of reading food labels. Over time, reading the ingredients will help you choose healthy foods and practice mindful eating.
Try to stay active
You don’t need a fancy gym membership to stay active. The goal is to include more movement in your day-to-day activities to boost your health. Our lifestyles have become increasingly sedentary, and it’s no secret that physical activity is the key to good health. Walking, even for just 15 minutes, to begin with has many health benefits. It keeps your heart healthy, improves balance, strengthens your bones, improves circulation, and more.
Most resolutions fail because they’re not realistic. You’ll have a better shot at keeping a resolution if you set a goal that’s doable for you. These simple health resolutions are easy, achievable ways to improve your physical and emotional health. They are great to follow regardless of your age. It’s time to set yourself up for success and make 2022 healthier and happier with these simple resolutions.
