All it takes is a look at what’s trending on Twitter to see what people’s top New Year’s resolutions really are. Twitter’s official list of resolutions included getting in shape, eating healthier and the lofty goal of being a better person. Surprisingly, drinking more water ranked higher than quitting smoking or drinking less alcohol.
However, all of the resolutions had one thing in common. They all involved being healthier whether physically, mentally and financially. And if you’re going to take the time to make resolutions and stick to them, you should make them count. Pick healthy habits that can transform your life one month at a time.
Get quality sleep every night
It’s probably no surprise that adults aren’t getting enough shut-eye. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, American adults aren’t getting enough sleep on a regular basis and are skimping on the recommended seven hours. However, getting quality sleep can make a bit impact on your health. In fact, an ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increase in heart disease, kidney, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.
Start by removing electronics and distractions from your bedroom, including take-home work from the office. Instead, turn your bedroom into a quiet oasis with soft lighting, candles and a firm mattress with a mattress pod topper to make your bed more comfortable and a place you actually want to be. For an added touch, spray with soothing lavender spray to enhance the feeling of relaxation.
Start meditating
Meditation is often overlooked as a health strategy, but can have powerful results. According to research collected from the Mayo Clinic, meditation may help manage everything from anxiety to depression and high blood pressure. Quieting your mind can also make you feel less stressed and frenetic after an all consuming day in and out of the office. Try sitting quietly for 10 minutes a few days a week and start jotting down the results to keep you motivated.
Pick a realistic fitness routine
Getting into shape usually tops resolution lists, but they often lead to plummeting failure — but it’s not all your fault. According to the University of Toronto, “false hope syndrome” suggests people expect to accomplish more things more quickly than realistically possible. That’s why it’s important to pick a fitness routine that’s realistic and sustainable.
Choose an activity you actually enjoy like biking, rollerblading or lifting weights and start slowly. There’s no need to dedicate seven days a week to the gym when you’re already crunched for time. Start with a few days a week and make a point to enjoy fitness time with friends like taking a bike ride through a nearby park.
Balance your diet
Like fitness, an aggressive diet plan can fail with overly ambitious goals. Think about balancing your diet instead with plenty of whole foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and plenty of protein. But with a focus on staying realistic, you should also leave room to occasionally splurge or enjoy a dinner out with friends. The lack of intense restrictions can give you the freedom to actually enjoy your diet and see the impact on your waistline at the same time.
New Year’s resolutions are full of hope and promise but are also hard work to keep. Make them inspiring and a way to impact your overall health and well-being. The more you see results in your new healthy lifestyle, the more likely you are to want to keep them.