We make them, and we often break them! They are the ubiquitous New Year’s Resolutions!
Health Magazine suggests that this year be the year of personal health. They have created the Top 10 Healthiest Resolutions List, from which you can adopt one or two as your own and not abandon throughout the year. Just follow a good plan and good health can be yours.
1. Lose Weight. Every year, the most common resolution is to lose weight. According to Health Magazine, it is the most popular resolution in made by American. Unfortunately, it is also the most broken. Instead of making a resolution to lose weight, why not make a plan for dealing with road bumps along the way. It is also suggested that you find a partner to work with you, someone to keep you accountable and give you support.
2. Keep in Touch with Old Friends. Social bonds are a strong part of our mental health. Research has shown that people are social by nature and need regular contact to maintain physical, spiritual and mental health. The surge of texting, Facebook and other technological advances has shoved aside personal connections. Make plans to stay connected this year.
3. Quit Smoking. Another common resolution, quitting the tobacco habit is sometimes a Herculean task. Research has shown that this habit is one of the hardest to quit. Find support through your physician, friends and family to help you through the tough times. Furthermore, find a replacement for that cigarette, such as talking a walk, learning a musical instrument, or adopting a pet. Sometimes a distraction can be a powerful tool when quitting the habit.
4. Save money. In a poor economy, it does seem nearly impossible to save any money. But, some of the answers to saving money may be as simple as eating home more often rather than going out. Rent movies on DVD rather than seeing them at the theatre, buy foods in bulk or on sale. There are a plethora of savings you can find when you look for them.
5. Reduce Stress. Stress is a constant for most of us, but reducing it can improve your overall health and well-being. Easy ways to reduce stress are making sure you get enough sleep and take time to relax. That relaxation may mean reading a good book, soaking in a bathtub, or taking a walk on the beach. Whatever relaxes you will also reduce your stress level.
6. Volunteer. Studies have found that people who give of themselves were 20% less likely than their peers to have heart problems such as heart disease or a heart attack. There are numerous non-profit organizations who would love to have your help. Look around and see what interests you. If you’re interested in children, perhaps working with the YMCA would fit the bill. If you like senior citizens, check out Active Aging. The opportunities are there, just step forward and make it work for your health.
7. Go Back to School. Educational experiences keep our minds sharp and vibrant. Keeping your brain engaged can also decrease your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. No matter what your age, anyone can go back to school, whether it’s for a formal degree or simply continuing education. Educational opportunities exist beyond book learning…you could learn basic plumbing, how to change the oil in your car, or how to knit. Regardless, the educational experience keeps your brain engaged and your mind sharp.
8. Reduce Alcohol Intake. Drinking alcohol, particularly in excess, affects the brain’s neurotransmitters which can cause depression, memory loss, or seizures. Furthermore, heavy drinking increases your risk of liver disease, heart problems and some types of cancers. Reducing your alcohol content – even by one drink a week – can significantly reduce your risks of health issues.
9. Get More Sleep. This is not to say you should stay in bed 24 hours a day; but solid REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is necessary to recharge the body. Research has shown that the average adult needs between 7 and 8 hours of sleep a night to be productive and healthy. If you don’t get this kind of sleep each night, you could resolve to increase your sleep by ½ hour per month until you reach the needed amount. As mentioned earlier, getting more sleep also helps reduce your overall stress level.
10. Travel. Even short trips away from home can refresh your body’s physical and mental health. Health Magazine says that traveling allows us to tap into life as an adventure, which promotes new learning and excitement. As noted earlier, educational experiences can improve brain functioning.
Whatever you do, select one or two resolutions that are do-able for you. Making a long list of resolutions can be overwhelming and cause added stress. Resolutions are intended for personal improvement, not to cause distress. Regardless of your resolutions, I wish you well for a healthy and happy 2013!
Reference:
Health. (2012). Top 10 healthiest New Year’s resolutions. Retrieved from http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20452233,00.html
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