We are still in the earlier stages of 2023 and as with any new year, comes with it new year resolutions. Statistics show that many resolutions have already been broken by the time it comes to February, but if you are determined to be healthier this year, it’s important not to let yourself fall off the bandwagon.
There are many ways that you can be more healthy and by implementing them in simple ways, you can stick to your resolution and improve the way you live your life. It’s important to be as healthy as you can, not just for your appearance in the short term, but because it can also help you avoid a myriad of health conditions as you get older. It’s important to always speak to healthcare professionals such as Inspire Health Primary Care Doctors with any concerns you might have, to ask about how to be more healthy or for an annual health check. This can help to keep any problems at bay and get you the treatment you need, if this is something you require.
Being healthy at home also sets a good precedent and standard for your children (if you have them) to follow and can create a good example for them to take after. If you are looking for some top tips to be healthier this year, we have put some together that aren’t too difficult to execute and can make it that bit more fun. Too many of us put pressure on ourselves and see it as a huge, difficult life change but it doesn’t need to be that way. Here are our top tips.
Learn to cook new meals
The way you eat plays a big part in how healthy you are and one main reason people tend to not eat that healthily is they run out of things to cook. It’s much more convenient to just pop a pie or pizza in the oven, but this can be loaded with calories and fat. Instead, learn to cook with fresh ingredients and find healthy but easy meals you can put together instead. You could also try batch cooking your meals on a weekend which just needs to be heated up after work during the week. This way you can eat well but don’t need to spend every night slaving away in the kitchen – it’s a win-win situation!
Find an exercise you enjoy
If you shudder at the thought of heading to the gym, it can put you off exercising. Yet all you need to do is find an exercise that you enjoy. There are so many different workouts out there that you can try, you’re sure to find one you love that will make you healthier in no time. You could try heading to a class such as yoga or pilates, or could try something such as aerials, circuit or jogging around a local park. Try to get a friend or family member to come with you and then you can motivate each other as well as see it as a social activity. It’s a win-win situation!
Drink at least eight glasses of water per day
Being hydrated plays a huge part in how healthy you are and because of this, you want to drink at least eight glasses of liquid every day. The best drink to stay hydrated is water, but other things such as juice or tea count too. Try to choose options that aren’t loaded with any sugars or preservatives and if you opt for things like orange juice, only have one glass a day as this can erode your teeth. There are many apps you can use to keep track of how much you have been drinking throughout the day that can help you stay on track.
Get enough sleep every night
Getting enough sleep is vital for both your physical and mental health and can ensure you feel well rested for the next day. Implement a sleeping routine that you follow each night which can help you to get the hours you need. Try to create a relaxing and warm sleep environment, investing in your bedding and not using any screens for at least an hour before you go to bed. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep a night and work out the right amount for you so you can wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Focus on your mental as well as your physical health
As well as focusing on your physical health, see how you can positively impact your mental health. Both of these work closely hand in hand and it’s important not to neglect how you feel emotionally. Take time to focus on your own goals, wants and needs, giving time to do what you enjoy. Speak to friends or family members if you are feeling down and ensure you don’t let stress pile on top of you. You could try journaling or other things such as mindfulness and meditation.
These are just a few things you can do that can ensure you are healthier this year. By following these top tips not only will you find that your physical physique improves, but you are also much happier in yourself. As time goes on you will also be less likely to suffer from health related issues such as heart disease, arthritis, high cholesterol and certain types of cancers too. By doing things such as cooking or exercising with friends and family you can help to keep each other motivated and on the right path for success. It makes it a lot easier to not slip off the bandwagon and to get the most benefits from what you are doing. Remember it’s ok to have cheat days where you don’t eat healthily and to allow yourself treats every now and again, just try not to make too big a habit of it. What are some of your top tips for being healthier this year? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
