10 Practical Resolutions to Make 2023 Your Healthiest Year
Ring in the New Year with a fresh start! Take charge of your health and make 2023 the year you take your wellness journey to the next level.
Why is it important to have a New Year's resolution?
It’s important to have a New Year’s resolution because it allows us to take stock of our lives, assess our goals and areas for improvement, and create a plan for achieving them. Having something tangible to work towards gives us motivation and focus, as well as bettering our overall health and wellbeing. It also allows us to challenge ourselves in new and exciting ways, which can be empowering and rewarding. Finally, it’s a great way to start the New Year by setting ourselves up for success.
Here are some resolutions that could help get you there.
1. Eat healthier
Eat less takeout and focus on home-cooked meals. Make sure to stock your pantry with healthy ingredients that you enjoy, such as fresh fruits and veggies, lean proteins, whole grains, and nuts.
2. Reduce your sugar and fat intake
Sugar and fat can quickly add unnecessary calories to your diet, so it’s important to be mindful of how much you are consuming. Try to reduce the amount of added sugar in your diet by avoiding processed foods and opting for fresh fruit instead. Similarly, limit the amount of saturated fats you eat by cutting out fried foods and choosing lean proteins instead.
3. Eat breakfast every day
You’ve heard it before, but eating a healthy breakfast can set the tone for the rest of your day – and help keep hunger pangs at bay. Aim to start each morning with something that has quality protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
4. Slow down while eating
When you eat too quickly, it’s easy to overeat. Try taking smaller bites and chewing each bite thoroughly before moving on to the next one. This can help you slow down and actually experience the flavors of the food, giving your brain time to register when you are full so that you don’t overindulge.
5. Try something new
Don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes or ingredients. Challenge yourself to learn how to prepare more health-conscious meals, such as grain bowls, salads, and veggie-filled dishes.
6. Drink more water
Staying hydrated is important for overall health and wellbeing, so try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This will help flush out toxins, keep you feeling energized, and improve your focus.
7. Take time for yourself
Too often we forget to take care of ourselves and end up feeling sluggish and overwhelmed. Make time each week to do something that you find enjoyable and calming, like reading a book or taking a walk.
8. Exercise regularly
Find a form of exercise that you enjoy – whether it’s running, biking, swimming, or yoga – and do it at least three times per week. This will help keep your body and mind fit and energized and could even reduce stress levels.
9. Get more sleep
Aim to get seven or eight hours of sleep each night, as this is essential for optimal health. If you find yourself having trouble sleeping, try some relaxation techniques like taking a hot bath before bed or drinking herbal tea.
10. Spend more time with family and friends
A strong social network can be hugely beneficial to our mental health, so try to make some extra time for those closest in your life this year. Whether it’s going out for coffee or having a movie night, quality time with loved ones can be life-changing.
How to make sure you can stick to these resolutions?
To ensure you follow through on these resolutions, it’s important to make yourself accountable. Track your progress in a journal or online calendar, and set reminders for yourself so that you don’t forget what you need to do. Additionally, try to find a friend or family member who is willing to hold you accountable and encourage you to stay on track. With a little dedication and self-discipline, you can make 2023 the year of improved wellness.
Not all resolutions have to take the form of major life changes – sometimes even small changes can make a big difference. Write down your goals and prioritize them according to importance so that you know exactly what you need to focus on. Then, take actionable steps towards achieving them, remembering to break them down into achievable chunks. This way, you can make steady progress and stay motivated throughout the year. With a little patience and dedication, you’ll be sure to reach your goals in 2023 and beyond.
Don’t forget to be kind to yourself and reward yourself for any progress you make. Best of luck with reaching your 2023 goals! Happy New Year!
