While our new years resolutions seem like a distant memory at this point, there’s still time to make 2023 your healthiest year yet. We’re excited to share a special guest post from our colleague, Marjorie McMillan. You can read some of Marjorie’s other pieces here! If you’ve tried to make a change earlier this year, there’s no time like the present to make changes.
And you won’t find a more crucial area of your life to change than your health. While it’s challenging to stay motivated and stick with healthy habits, you can take simple steps to make this your healthiest year to date. Made to Sustain shows you how.
Make Your Home Positive and Negative-Free
The environment around us has a major influence on our mental and physical well-being, so it’s essential to pay attention to the energy you bring into your home. This means being mindful of outside influences that could be negative or hurtful and creating an atmosphere that promotes positive emotions like joy, peace, and love.
Bring in plants for fresh air, light some candles for relaxation, and incorporate warm colors like red or orange into your space. These minor touches will help foster a more calming environment that you look forward to coming back to each day!
Eat Healthy and Sustainable Foods
A healthy diet is critical when it comes to sticking with good habits and maintaining your overall well-being. Try stocking up on wholesome foods like:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Lean proteins like chicken or fish
- Whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice
- Nuts
- Legumes
- Yogurt
- Low-fat dairy products
All of these provide essential nutrients that can keep you energized throughout the day. And if you need an extra boost of hydration, reach for sparkling water instead of soda or juice!
Create a Fitness Routine
Staying active is key for keeping your body strong and healthy, and having an established routine makes all the difference. Whether you prefer to run outdoors or hit up the gym regularly with friends, make sure you’re setting aside at least 30 minutes a day (or every other day) for physical activity. Exercise releases endorphins, naturally helping to lift moods — so think about the mental benefits when you don’t feel like moving your body!
Get Better Sleep
Adequate sleep is another crucial factor regarding a balanced lifestyle. Aim for eight hours per night if possible. This will help you avoid feeling sluggish during the day, and you can do it by implementing strategies like:
- Cutting out caffeine after noon (or earlier if needed).
- Taking time out of your evening routine for yoga, stretching, reading, or other relaxing activities.
- Avoiding electronic screens before bedtime (like phones or TVs).
- Setting a consistent bedtime schedule.
Consistently taking these steps can have incredible effects on your mind and body. Prioritize your sleep for a better overall life!
Get Outside More Often
Lastly, remember that being in nature has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve moods. Why wouldn’t you want to take advantage of that? Besides, spending time outside is free, and most paid outdoor activities are quite affordable.
Taking short walks throughout the day is one easy way to incorporate outdoor time into your routine, and it can give you some much-needed breaks from work. Here are some other activities that can boost your health:
- Cycling can get your heart rate up and increase your endurance.
- Swimming can help build your strength and improve your coordination, balance, and flexibility.
- Hiking can bring you closer to nature, giving you a peaceful workout and improving your mood in the process.
- Rock climbing provides an intense physical workout that builds upper body strength and stamina.
- Running is an excellent way to burn calories, strengthen your lungs and heart, and boost your overall aerobic fitness.
- Yoga and Pilates allow you to enjoy nature while getting some gentle exercise for improved posture and core strength.
Summary
No, making healthy habits isn’t a walk in the park (pun intended), but you’ll never regret making them! You can start by implementing positive changes around your living environment and moving on to eating healthier foods, creating an exercise routine, and incorporating the other ideas above. Once you establish these habits as part of your daily routine, they’ll soon become second nature and set you up for the healthiest year of your life!
If you enjoyed this article, you can find more helpful content on MadeToSustain.com!
