As the year begins, you may be considering a New Year’s resolution. Maybe you made a resolution last year and stuck with it, or maybe you had totally forgotten about it by February. Maybe you don’t believe in making New Year’s resolutions.
Regardless, it may help if you have a better idea of what exactly a New Year’s resolution is and what you’d like it be, too. A New Year’s resolution is a promise that you make to yourself or others to carry out an idea or action.
Health and fitness resolutions are some of the hardest to keep. However, these resolutions can be crucial to improving both your physical and mental health. Don’t make the mistake that many often do — make big, unattainable goals and end up disappointed. Start out with small and doable fitness goal, then build from there.
Go for a walk after dinner. Tip: If you don’t have a dog who’s expecting a walk, bring a family member with you or just some headphones to pass the time. You can start with short distances at first.
Get familiar with a new machine. Tip: Ease into a new machine at the gym. Be sure to start slow and don’t overexert yourself.
Move every day. Tip: Some days you may move less than others, and that’s OK. Listen to your body, but try to loosen up to prevent stiffness and injury.
Address problem areas before they get worse. Tip: Buy yourself a small ice pack that you can put on areas you’ve previously injured or that frequently get sore. Use it nightly or in the morning after you stretch.
Drink an extra glass of water each day. Tip: Pick a time of day that makes sense for you, such as first thing in the morning. Consider swapping out a sugary or caffeinated beverage for water.
Learn how to prepare a vegetable dish you love. Tip: Choose an easy recipe if you’re new to cooking. It doesn’t have to require the oven, either. You can easily create unique salsas or salads.
2021 has been a challenging year for all of us, but we can’t let that stop you from living our best life!
~ Jade Asuncion