It’s that time of the year when people start setting their goals for the new year! If the past two years of the pandemic have taught us anything, it’s that prioritizing self-care and your overall well-being is as important as ever. Here are some simple new year’s resolutions for a happier and healthier you. Bonus: They are easy to keep!
1. Sit less, move more
With the pandemic causing on-and-off lockdowns, travel restrictions, and remote work setups, a lot of us have found ourselves spending more time sitting down in front of our laptops either for work, shopping, or entertainment.
This year, it won’t hurt to cut back on the time you spend sitting on your chair, so you can combat a sedentary lifestyle. Moving more means taking standing breaks, dancing to your favorite song, playing with your pets, or pacing around the house for a few minutes every hour. Stretch those joints and muscles!
2. Take more self-care days
It’s okay to rest and take a breather if you feel overwhelmed. Taking a step back can even help bring more clarity to your mind. Sleep in, watch a movie, tend to your garden, walk outside, do a self-care ritual, or talk to someone you trust. Then dive back into your responsibilities feeling recharged and ready to take on the rest of it.
3. Try new (healthier) foods
Committing to eating healthier for one year can sound intimidating, and it’s not as easy to change your diet overnight. Instead of feeling pressured to do this, introduce the change slowly and give yourself one meal at a time to try a new healthy dish! Make it a point to try a new healthy dish at regular intervals. You can have a target goal each month to help you keep track. And if you like what you try, you’ll be more open to incorporating this in your diet moving forward.
4. Explore a new hobby
Trying something new will mold you to become more adaptable, resourceful, and open to new ideas and change. This could be something as simple as sewing, cooking, or skating. Think of it as another outlet available to you whenever you feel stressed or need a break. It helps keep your brain sharp, too!
5. Use your vacation time
Regardless of whether you’re a workaholic or not, try to use up your available vacation time to spend time on something other than your job. Taking a break is healthy, and keeps your mental health in check. This will help you become more resilient and create memories that you can enjoy--and that’s a win in anyone’s book!
6. Get regular health checkups
Most people only feel the need to visit their doctor when they feel unwell. Skipping routine checkups means missing that crucial window where it’s possible to prevent or treat diseases at their early stages. As part of your goal to prioritize your health and well-being this year, it would be great to include regular health check-ups with your doctor. (That includes your dentist, too!)
New Year, Better You
We are all a work-in-progress, and every year we strive to be better versions of ourselves. This new year, let’s vow to prioritize our well-being a bit more, on all facets of our health--mental, emotional, and physical.
Doctor Anywhere wishes you a happy and healthy year ahead!
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