Let’s Make 2021 the Year of Small Changes
Small changes can make a big difference in your health and daily life.
New Year’s Resolutions are great, but for most of us, we stop after a couple of months and go back to old habits. Make your list of changes for the New Year. Start with small changes and keep track of your goals and successes.
Get at least 8 hours of sleep. Being sleep deprived adversely affects your health in many ways: weight gain, fatigue, and depression are just a few.
Drink water throughout your day. Water is the best choice for hydrating throughout the day. Limit sodas and juice.
Make healthy lunch choices. Pack your lunch or choose healthy options when eating out. Avoid heavy fats and starches.
Choose gratitude. Say thank you to family, friends, and colleagues. This can make a positive difference in your relationships.
Stretch before bed. Stretching helps increase your muscles’ flexibility, releases stress from your body, and helps calm your mind.
Always wear sunscreen. It will help protect you from skin cancer and keep your skin looking younger.
Limit your social media and news consumptions. Too much can cause anxiety and depression.
Limit your alcohol consumption. You can still enjoy a happy hour but make your choices smaller and healthier.
Do you sit at a computer all day? Set an alarm to remind you to walk around your office or stand for a while.
Cook your own food. Most ready-made meals and take-out have higher levels of sodium and sugar than what you prepare at home.
Learn something new. Engaging your mind by learning something new keeps us younger and happier.
Schedule your annual checkups early in the year and keep the appointments (wellness visits, mammograms, dental cleaning, eye exam, vaccination updates, etc.)
If you smoke, now is the time to stop. Kentucky ranks worst out of all states for Lung Cancer. If you are struggling to stop, meet with your physician for assistance.
Shop at the Farmer’s Market for vegetables and fruit. It is a great way to eat healthier and support your local community.
Read a book. Visit your local library to set up an account and engage your mind by reading.
Limit your caffeine. It can adversely affect your sleep.
Park further from the door and walk.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Decrease clutter in your home and office.
Visit local parks and walk the trails.
Volunteer, many of your local non-profits are looking for volunteers.