Lifestyle
15 Resolutions You Should Keep in 2016
It’s hard to believe, but 2016 is just around the corner. With the upcoming new year people tend to make new years resolutions. They resolve to do something better with the hopes of improving their life or the lives of those around them. What new years resolutions should a person select and try to keep? There are a number of resolutions that a person should stick to in effort to help improve their own lives in the new year.
Getting to bed earlier
Getting more than 6 hours of sleep can do wonders for your health. Sleep helps improve cognitive function, reduce internal inflammation, improves weight control and much more! Getting extra sleep also reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Get to bed earlier and your body will thank you for it.
Eating better
Have you heard the old adage an apple a day keeps the doctor away? It is true! Eating healthy gives your body the vitamins and minerals it needs to thrive. Experts recommend eating 5-9 servings of both fruit and vegetables per day. If you don’t do that regularly, don’t stress. Set a smaller goal of 3 servings per day for 30 to 60 days. Once you conquer that goal, increase your fruit and veggie intake up to the 5 or more servings per day.
Exercising
Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health and increases weight loss. Exercise also releases endorphins which help you feel good. Experts recommend 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity. If you don’t exercise regularly, try starting with walking. It’s easy to do and the only equipment you need is a good pair of shoes.
Stop eating out all the time
Eating out may be easy, but it’s not healthy. Fast food is full of sodium, calories and other preservatives. Over time these things can contribute to heart disease, weight gain and chronic health conditions. Avoid those issues by starting to cook at home. Plan your own menu weekly. It may take a few minutes longer but it is worth it in the long run.
Improving your overall wellness
Schedule a yearly physical. Call your health insurance carrier prior to scheduling this appointment. Different insurances provide different levels of coverage for a physical/annual health exam. In addition, prior to your appointment make a list of questions/concerns to discuss with the Doctor. At the physical, the provider will do a physical exam and review current medications. They may order blood work or additional testing.
Being more responsible with money
Money helps you buy basic life necessities AND fun stuff. Try to change how you view money. Money is a responsibility not a reward. Write out a budget for yourself each month. Cut out one luxury per week/month, ex-buy one less cup of coffee per week. Save the money from your cost cutting measures in a savings account.
Cleaning up your foul mouth
Let’s face it, sometimes everyone needs to swear. However, every other word out of your mouth shouldn’t be a profanity. If you have this problem, create a swear jar for yourself. Every time you swear you put in a certain amount of money. After a month take the money and go do something nice for yourself.
Closer connection with family
Try to contact your family once a week. You can call, e-mail, face time or write a letter. If you have a big family, you don’t have to reach out to every person each week. Do what is comfortable for you. This increase in communication will strengthen your bond and make holidays/special occasions more enjoyable.
Turn off the technology
Are you someone that never sets your smartphone down? Then you have a case of technology addiction! Break the habit by turning off your smartphone during meals with family and friends. This change will feel awkward at first but over time it will get easier. Your relationships will improve as people appreciate you listening and giving them your full attention. You will feel better knowing those around you are happy.
More time for friends
As you get older, time with friends can be few and far between. Make a commitment to designating a certain night just for hanging out with friends. You don’t have to do anything fancy or spend a lot of money. Spending time with friends can help your health. Experts say that those who have friends are less likely to have cardiovascular issues and stress in their lives.
Volunteering in the community
There is a number of charities and not for profit organizations that need volunteers. These groups need help with everything from special events, clerical work and more. Look up a favorite cause online and inquire about how you can help them. Often, volunteer work can be done from home. Helping others makes you feel good.
One random act of kindness per day
What the world needs now is kindness. Help one random person with something every day. This doesn’t have to involve money. It can be as simple as holding the door for someone else. This will help you and another person feel good. Encourage people to pass it on!
Take a staycation
You may have lived in the same city for a long time, but have you truly seen all your city has to offer? Look up your city online and find out what it’s known for. Then pick 3 local places you would like to go to. You can go anyplace from a museum to a restaurant. Enjoy exploring your town. Exploring is fun!
Write down a list of the things you are thankful for
Have an attitude of gratitude. Every day write down ten things you are thankful for. These things don’t have to be anything profound. Think simple-I’m thankful for my home, my family, my cat, etc. When you have a bad day, refer to this list and remember all the wonderful blessings in your life.
Set goals for the coming year
Make a list of goals you want to accomplish in 2016. Experts suggest picking goals that are S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely). What does that mean? Make goals that specifically pinpoint exactly what you home to accomplish. Make tasks for you to get to those goals. Basically a road map to your goal. Don’t forget to make reasonable goals for yourself. Winning the lottery is not an attainable or realistic goal unfortunately. Lastly, think about goals in the here and now as well as long term. Whatever goals you choose be sure to rock them out in 2016.