Now is the time when people start to set resolutions for their new year. Weight loss, eating healthier and exercising are common intentions this time of year. Unfortunately, most people set resolutions that are too restrictive and unsustainable, leading them to abandon their plans within a few weeks. Below are four intentions that most people could add to their life permanently.
- Eat more fruit and vegetables. One of the best ways to move your diet in a more healthy direction is to focus on eating more plants. Eating more plants will bring more vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and fiber into your life. The USDA recommends between 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
- Pause for 1 minute a day. Take one minute a day to focus on deep belly breathing to bring some calm and focus into your life. Meditation has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. As this one minute pause becomes a regular part of your life, try expanding the time you spend focused on breath.
- Sit less. Sitting for prolonged periods of time has been shown to have a detrimental impact on overall health. Set reminders to get up and move for at least five minutes in every hour. Try adding a lunch time walk to your work day routine. Take the stairs or park further away from the entrance to your office building. Even small amounts of movement can bring positive changes to your health.
- Floss your teeth. Brushing and flossing is not only important in the fight against bad breath and gum disease, it can also impact conditions such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease. Good oral hygiene is important for overall health!
These are just a few ideas of easy, sustainable New Year’s resolutions. What do you want to change in your life this year
