Okay, another year has come and gone, and you think, “Ugh! I can’t seem to keep my resolutions to become healthier.” Failure to fulfill resolutions may be related to focusing on a specific outcome rather than the journey to get there. For example, one might zero-in on specific body weight, say losing 30 lbs., rather than the practice of daily nutritious eating that can help one’s overall health. Folks also tend to put a lot of strict demands upon themselves only to discover waning motivation or lack of time to follow through. Rather than be intense, be realistic with your resolutions. Think about the goals you hope to achieve and focus on the way to get there instead. Here are three easy ways to become healthier in 2023 – without intense pressure.
- Make better food choices – Bouncing from one diet plan to another, especially those that greatly restrict eating, is tough on the body and psyche. Rather than yo-yo diet, increase the number of healthy foods you stock in your refrigerator and pantry. Per the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, there are five major food groups that promote good health. They include 1. vegetables 2. fruits 3. lean meats plus poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts, and seeds 4. grain cereal foods 5. healthy dairy plus reduced fat alternatives. Recommended foods to consume less of include sweets, processed meats, fried food, saturated fats, alcohol and more. Read labels and opt for less salt and sugar in prepared foods. When you go for a snack, skip the chips and ice cream. Instead, grab healthy hummus, an apple, dried fruit, nuts and more. These simple swaps can add up to big calories lost.
- Move around more – Not too many people enjoy forced exercise. For this reason, it’s necessary to find less rigid and more fun ways to get your body moving. Do you enjoy dancing? Take salsa lessons. Tennis? Join a local team. Walking? Take the dog for daily strolls to the park. That way you sneak in regular exercise in a joyful manner without the dread of having to do strict exercises. The CDC shares that, “Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.” Thus, there are many noted benefits to moving our bodies.
- Achieving a positive mindset – It’s been said that, based on laws of attraction, “A positive mindset brings positive things.” WebMD states that there are physical benefits of optimistic and positive thinking. They may include longer life span, lower blood pressure and chances of having a heart attack, better physical health, greater resistance to the common cold and other illnesses, better stress management, and increased tolerance to pain. Additionally, people tend to be happier and more creative, demonstrate better problem-solving skills and clearer thinking, and report better coping skills and less depression. Try to look at the good rather than spend time wallowing in the sad. Engage in daily mood boosting activities, such as listening to music you love, talking with people who are uplifting and make you happy, playing with your pet, reading inspiring material, and doing nice things for other people as examples.
Unfortunately, there is no magical pill, trick, or potion designed to make us physically and mentally well. However, seeing a doctor regularly, and working with them to set some flexible yet highly achievable goals like those above, can likely increase wellness in 2023. By focusing on self-care in the New Year, particularly eating nutritiously, staying physically active, and having a happy mindset, we can improve how we feel, and positively impact how we respond to situations and others to achieve the ultimate inner and outer peace.
Disclaimer: This article is for general purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
Sources:
Control the mess
WebMd (Positive Thinking: What it is and how to do it)
CDC (Physical activity)
Australian Guide to Healthy Eating (Eat for health campaign)
