Suzanne Marlatt Stewart
A new year often signifies a fresh start for many people. For some, this means setting healthy goals. However, some of the health and wellness resolutions chosen are highly restrictive and not attainable, leading most people to break their resolutions. It’s important to make resolutions that can not only improve health but also be followed for life.
Eat more whole foods. One of the easiest and most sustainable ways to improve overall health is to eat more whole foods. These foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a plethora of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level. Research shows that following a whole-foods-based diet may significantly reduce heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels, as well as decrease your risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes.
Sit less and move more. Whether it’s due to having a sedentary job or simply being inactive, many people sit more than they should. Sitting too much can have negative effects on health. In fact, it may be linked to an increased risk of overall mortality. Making a resolution to sit less is an easy and attainable resolution that can be tailored to fit your lifestyle.
Get more quality sleep. Sleep deprivation can lead to serious consequences. For instance, lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression. There are many reasons why people don’t get enough sleep, so it’s important to focus on your schedule and lifestyle to determine the best ways to improve sleep quantity and quality.
Find a physical activity that you enjoy. Every New Year, people purchase expensive memberships to gyms, workout studios, and online fitness programs in hopes of shedding excess body fat in the year to come. Though most people start strong, the majority don’t make their new routine into a lasting habit. Choose an activity based on enjoyment and whether it fits into your schedule.
Cook more meals at home. Research shows that people who cook more meals at home have better diet quality and less body fat than people who eat more meals on the go. In fact, a study of 11,396 adults found that those who ate five or more home-cooked meals per week were 28% less likely to be overweight, compared with those who ate fewer than three home-cooked meals per week.
Be more present. Research shows that being more present may improve life satisfaction by decreasing negative thoughts. Making a New Year’s resolution to be more mindful and present may help you feel more content.
My suggestion is to choose one resolution you want to start with for a week. Focus on just that one. Trying to make too many changes at one time can be overwhelming. Remind yourself you are so worth it, enjoy living the best healthy version of yourself. Peace and blessings.
Rev. Suzanne, a resident of SaddleBrooke, is an independent writer and speaker. She was ordained nondenominational, representing all faiths, and her focus is inclusivity. Email her at [email protected].