Anyone can rattle off a list of New Year’s resolutions—the big challenge is keeping them. For most of us, our commitment to our goals starts strong but then tends to wane in spring. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. One big problem with New Year’s resolutions is that they can be so grandiose as to be discouraging. A better idea is to set specific, practical resolutions that you can achieve without too much difficulty or anguish.
(Pixabay / skeeze)
Consider these resolutions. They touch on some of the most critical health habits but are also “doable” measures that you have a good chance of achieving in 2017.
- Drop something – Aim to get rid of at least one unhealthy food item this year. You don’t have to overhaul your diet; just find at least one thing that you can eliminate. Perhaps you can ditch soda or that candy bar after lunch. You can make small, positive steps towards good health through modest eliminations.
- Exercise – You don’t have to sign up for a gym membership and buy expensive exercise outfits in order to exercise. You can integrate exercises into almost everything you do each day. You can give up the use of the elevator and climb the stairs instead. You can park in the farthest spot in the parking lot and walk the rest of the way. You can do a short routine of push-ups and sit-ups each morning or find one cardio workout online to do a few times a week.
- Give up on fad diets – People often start a fad diet at the beginning of the year with the hope of dumping many pounds. The problem is, very few fad diets help you achieve lasting success. Opt instead to eliminate excessive snacking and eat modest meals that include veggies, lean protein and only minimal starches and sugars.
- Cook your meals – Restaurant food often contains an avalanche of fat and calories. Head back to your kitchen and start cooking your own food, using fresh and healthy ingredients. You’ll feel better, save money, and may even discover a hidden talent in the kitchen.
- Quit smoking – Granted, this one is not easy, but if you love your life, commit to drop smoking this year. Smoking pollutes not only the environment but also your body, putting you at increased risk for cancer and other respiratory diseases.
- Try a seven-day detox – Use natural or herbal detox methods to cleanse the different organs of your body and get rid of toxins you have accumulated. Check out PureDetox products for different detox options.
Keep your resolutions simple and doable, and welcome the New Year with a happier and healthier version of you.