Make Healthy Choices Your New Year’s Resolution
As the clock finally wound down in 2020, what goals did you set for yourself for the new year?
Whether your goals include improving your physical health or your mental wellbeing, there’s no better time to start than when you have a fresh, clean slate for a new year.
Of course, a resolution is only as good as your commitment to it. So, as you promise to improve your body and mind in any of the following ways, make sure your goals are realistic and attainable so you can stick with it throughout the year and celebrate your success in 2022!
Eat healthier.
A healthy diet is one of the building blocks of a healthy physical lifestyle. While this is important, healthy eating habits go far beyond just grabbing more fruits and vegetables at the grocery store.
Portion control is an equally important part of adopting a healthier lifestyle. Take a hard look at how much you’re eating and see if there’s room to scale back. Cut your meals down to just as much as you need to feel full and save the rest for later. For reference, check out this helpful guide on how to measure your portions.
And of course, mind the content of the food you’re eating. Know that one meal plan doesn’t work for everyone. For example, while cutting back on carbs may work for some, it’s not a plan that works for everyone. Check out this guide from NPR on finding the right meal plan for your lifestyle.
Get moving.
Getting some exercise will not only work wonders for your physical health, but your mental wellness too. It may sound intimidating, but you don’t have to look like Dwayne Johnson at the end of the year — just getting moving with something simple, like going for a walk every day, to get you started.
If your job requires you to sit at a computer all day, be sure to take breaks. Get up and move around to keep your muscles active — and reduce the strain on your eyes.
Or if looking like the Rock is your goal, start simple. Find an exercise or two that will benefit the area you want to improve the most, then stick with it. The hardest part of exercising is getting started on a routine; once that’s done, focus on short-term goals that will evolve into long-term lifestyle changes.
Take care of your mental wellness.
Taking care of your physical wellbeing is very important, but your physical health shouldn’t eclipse your mental wellbeing. You can focus on your eating habits and exercise while making a conscious effort to improve your mental health. Commit to these areas and you’ll begin to notice positive changes in your overall health. Social interaction is another key component of improving your mental wellness, so make sure you connect with friends and family — even if it’s just via text or phone call, or virtual communication.
Make time for yourself. Don’t let yourself be buried in an avalanche of work. Strike a healthy balance between work and your personal life by keeping your work limited to certain hours. The rest of the time is yours to spend with your family and pursue your hobbies.
For more tips on improving your mental wellness, check out this great guide from NAMI.
Make more frequent appointments.
Finally, keep a close eye on your health by making more frequent appointments with your provider at a Culbertson Clinic near you. Don’t skip your routine check-ups and talk with your primary care provider if something doesn’t seem right. Counseling services are also available.
To schedule an appointment, call the Registration Department at (217) 322-4321.