Virtually everyone’s list of New Year’s Resolutions includes at least one
of the following: lose weight, eat better, and exercise more. So why is it so difficult to make these changes and improve your health? Lifestyle changes are tough and taking small steps can often get the ball rolling for better health. Here are five easy steps to make your mind, body,and soul a little healthier in 2023.
Step 1 - Eat Breakfast
Even if it’s a small glass of OJ or some toast, eating breakfast can jumpstart your day. Eating breakfast causes your body’s metabolism to turn on, going from a slowed down, overnight fasting state to a speedier, daytime state that will burn more calories and give you more energy. And those who skip breakfast tend to be hungrier at lunchtime, causing them to overeat, and take in more calories than if they had eaten breakfast in the first place.
Step 2 - Play
Instead of thinking of exercise as running on a “dreadmill” for a horribly long time, be creative and think of something active that you enjoy doing. Relive those glory days on the basketball, softball, or soccer team and join a community league. Or dust off the bike in the garage and get out for a ride. If your exercise regimen is fun and rewarding, then you are much more likely to stick to it.
Step3-Read
Work out your mind by getting into a good book. Skip that half-hour TV show that really isn’t that interesting anyway and crack open the new book you got for Christmas. Keeping your mind sharp by reading will improve your ability to concentrate and let’s face it-- you might even learn something new.
Step 4- Volunteer
Pick your favorite charity or non- profit organization and get involved. Doing volunteer work will often end up helping you just as much as it allows you to help those around you. The personal rewards of being involved in something bigger than yourself will add to a healthier you.
Step 5 - Visit an Old Friend
The beginning of the year is a great time to go see your primary care physician for that annual check-up. Your doctor can tailor your visit so that you get all your recommended preventative screening exams. Remember an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.