Good morning and a very happy Monday to you. I hope that you had a great weekend. I am sure this past week that you have heard or read numerous posts about New Years resolutions. I personally do not make resolutions, I did half heartily when I was younger but gave that up years ago when I never ever followed through with one. I guess with age comes wisdom. Here is the bottom line, you do not have to wait for January 1st to start over, every day of your life is a new day and a new opportunity to live a happy, healthier life.
Here are 5 Things to Do To Have a Great Year and A Better Life.
1. Practice Gratitude
Practice gratitude because being grateful makes you happy. Be grateful for the good, bad, simple and momentous things in your life. In other words just be grateful and make a point to acknowledge it in your life. It is as simple as keeping a gratitude journal where each morning or evening you make note of 3-5 things your are grateful for, there is nothing too small or too big to be thankful for. It could be a sunny day after a week of rain, the perfect cup of coffee, a promotion, a new puppy, and so much more.
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| Thankful Journal |
2. Exercise More
Do you know the easiest exercise? The one that you actually do. One of the easiest ways to stay healthy and to take care of yourself is to exercise. I am not suggesting you run out and join a gym or run a marathon, I am talking about something that is as easy as tying your shoes and going for a walk. Walking is a great way to exercise your body and your mind. While walking you can meditate, listen to a book, learn a language, or socialize with your friends. Walking is low impact, can be done at anytime of the day, is great for cardiovascular health, osteoporosis and more. I have had a Fitbit Flex for over 3 years and although I do not wear it all of the time, to date I have walked 14, 895.295 steps! I try to walk 10,000 steps a day, sometimes I walk more, sometimes less but at least I try.
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| Fitbit Flex |
3. Eat Healthier
Along with exercise, dieting is one of the top resolutions that people make. I have tried everything from Paleo, to Atkins, no carbs, low carbs, shakes, no food and everything in between. I was a vegetarian for over 20 years and I was the most unhealthy I have ever been, my nails split, my hair fell out and I looked like a chipmunk. Several years ago I just gave up when I came to the realization that what works for me is everything in moderation. As I age I try to eat healthy 80% of the time and eat things like pizza, donuts, and other things I like 20% of the time. This year why not make an effort to eat more fruits and vegetables? Drink more water, eat fresh food, not processed and you will feel so much better. Little changes will make a huge difference in how you feel.
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| S’well Water Bottle |
4. Get More Sleep
Experts recommend 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night and in fact say that it is as important if not more than what you eat and if you exercise. A good nights sleep is great for your mental health, your cognitive functions, your heart, your weight and so much more. The bottom lie is your need a good nights sleep. Make your bedroom an oasis by getting yourself a good mattress, a comfy pillow, some new sheets, a down comforter and whatever else you need to create a comfortable, calm soothing environment.
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| Bed From One Kings Lane |
5. Spend You Time Wisely
Life is precious and time is short, don’t waste it doing things you do not want to do or with people that you do not want to be with. Live your best life doing things you love, that bring you joy. Give your time to people who make you happy and guess what, you will find yourself happier.
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| Agenda |
None of these 5 things are are new or innovative, just 5 things that are easy to do that will help you to live a healthier and happier life.
Please share your resolutions if you made some this year as well as your tips for sticking to them or things that you do to live a healthier life.
Have a great day!
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Well Elizabeth….this is the best encouragement…..thank you! I agree with everything you said…..it's all balanced and I thank you for such uplifting ideas….warm hugs!
Great advice. Love your balanced approach to eating. I've been on an elimination diet to deal with an inflammatory condition and it's miserable! I like the 80/20 approach as I phase regular food back in. Happy new year!
I don't make resolutions either. And I don't go on diets. The books/journals are lovely!
Brenda
Good advice!