The new year is right around the corner. For some people, it’s the most exciting time of the year because it’s a time of renewal. It is a time to dream, plan, and have faith in the power of determination to make change happen. That includes deciding this is the year to be a healthier you. All you need is to have a picture in your mind of what you want to achieve and then set specific, achievable goals. Start by adding these smart ideas to your list of New Year’s resolutions.
There are many changes you can make to your lifestyle to become healthier. You can add new exercises, add new foods, and try journaling.
Try a New Workout or Fitness Class
Take yourself outside of your comfort zone and try a new type of workout. Why? Your body gets used to doing the same exercises and, over time, they become less effective. Connect with muscles you haven’t connected with in a while by trying something new. It’ll be a fun challenge and you’ll notice other benefits too. You can meet different people, get excited about exercise again, and maybe shape parts of your body you’ve completely forgotten about.
Getting into a workout routine can also add structure and discipline to your life, which is good for building healthy habits. Once you begin to exercise regularly, it will help change your diet as well., You’ll start to understand what foods help to fuel your body, like protein, and what foods are not as good for you, such as saturated fats. If you are lifting heavy weights, you’ll want to be sure to focus on a high-protein, low-fat diet to help aid in muscle growth and recovery, without gaining weight from fat. Carbs from foods like fruit and vegetables are also good for a pre-workout snack for energy.
Keep a Daily Journal to Track Your Progress
Keeping a fitness or wellness journal is one of the best ways to stay motivated and track your progress. Be sure to include the activities you did, how they made you feel, achievements, anything that didn’t work for you, the date, time, meals, water intake, and any new exercises. You might also want to record sleeping patterns, favorite recipes, progress photos, inspirational quotes, and personal goals.
Another good practice for journaling is practicing gratitude. Take the time out of your day to write down three things you are grateful for. You may find yourself feeling more fulfilled when you take a look at what you do have, instead of stressing and focusing on what you don’t.
Swap Soda for Water
Soda is a go-to drink because, of course, it tastes amazing. Unfortunately, it has a lot of calories without any nutritional value. Soda causes weight gain and tooth erosion, contains excessive sugar, and has caffeine that can lead to dehydration. Swap it out for water and take note of the changes. With time, eliminating soda from your diet will improve your heart and brain function, allow you to absorb more calcium, give you whiter teeth, and help you lose weight.Â
There are also sugar-free add-ins that you can put into your water to add flavor. Once you start switching to water, you’ll notice how much sweeter soda is compared to flavored water and sugar-free drinks.
Eat Three Cups of Veggies Each Day
Everyone needs three to five servings of fruit and vegetables each day. This comes to at least 2.5 cups of vegetables for women and at least 3 cups for men. Creatively sneak them into meals. Shred them, puree them, add them to soups and smoothies, or try eating more raw vegetables throughout the day.
Set Aside Time for Friends and Family at Least Two Days a Week
It’s easy to get lost in the day-to-day, and without realizing it, go for weeks before spending time with friends. Social networks are important for your physical and emotional health. Friends can aid recovery from illness, reduce your chances of getting sick in the first place, improve your mental health, and maybe even help you to live longer. So, make time for them at least two days each week, for your sake and theirs. Another fun way to involve your friends in your life is to ask them to go to the gym with you. This way, you have a buddy who exercises with you and you’re helping each other become healthier.
