Resolutions for a Healthy Body
The purpose of this list is to provide ideas – not every idea will resonate with every person and that is okay. Maybe something on the list will spark an idea that resonates with your interests and abilities.
First and foremost, schedule those doctor’s appointments that you have been putting off. This includes the dentist! Get the appointments on your calendar as a form of self-care that is the foundation of healthy living. If you are not used to regular physical activity, start slowly to avoid injury. Consult with a medical professional before starting new routines to ensure they align with your unique needs.
Set reasonable distance goals. Whether you walk, run, swim, row, or bike, be sure that the goals you set are within reach. Set yourself up for success by creating easier-to-meet goals when you first start and then adjust the goals to make them more challenging as you become stronger and have more stamina.
Accountability and community. Join a walking group or download a step tracker or game (e.g., Pikmin Bloom) that promotes walking and collaboration. Virtual walking challenges allow you to join a group of other walkers and track your progress over a specific period of time.
Stretch at different times of the day. Look online or talk with a doctor or fitness expert about a series of stretches that will address areas that tighten throughout the day, like your neck or your back.
Join a challenge. Participate in a push-up challenge. Or a plank challenge. Or a yoga challenge. These challenges are usually short-term – 30 days or so. They help you build strength through daily practice and don’t take a long time to perform during the day. Get a few friends to join you to help you remain accountable.
Flow. Explore gentle forms of movement such as Tai chi, chair yoga, or Qigong. These low-impact, flowing movement activities are great for people who what a relaxing exercise experience and for folks who are easing back into the practice of exercising.
Learn more about your eating habits. When you understand your eating habits or overeating triggers, you bring awareness to your relationship with food. This may not stop you from overeating every time, but the awareness creates space for you to stop and think about what you are doing, rather than acting on impulse.
Start a food diary. Again, awareness of obstacles is beneficial when setting goals related to food. This practice may help you notice how often you are eating processed or sugary foods. Cut one of these unhealthy items out of your diet each week or each month to prevent feelings of deprivation that can lead to strong cravings. For example, instead of stopping all junk food, cut out chips or ice cream – but not both at once. Find tasty and healthy replacements to combat cravings!
Incorporate new foods. Look into gut-friendly ingredients that can help ease a number of physical ailments. Consult a nutritionist to make sure your diet meets your unique needs. Try new foods from different parts of the world. This is a great way to learn about new cultures and nurture your body.
Take your vitamins. Some people are very good at this because they have worked this practice into their routine. For other people, taking vitamins is a sporadic practice. Pick a time of day, place the bottle in a prominent location, and work with a partner to create a simple vitamin-taking routine.
Drink more water. Yep… more!
For the main article Healthy Living in the New Year, CLICK HERE
For the article Resolutions for a Healthy Mind, CLICK HERE
For the article Resolutions for a Healthy Spirit, CLICK HERE
For the article Director’s Corner – Supporting Healthy Resolutions in the New Year, CLICK HERE
