The New Year often comes with resolutions and a drive to be better in the coming year. However, many of these resolutions fall by the wayside after a few weeks, and we revert to our old habits. If you want to make a lasting change with new routines or cutting out bad habits, it’s a great time to start. Keep reading to learn about six health habits to start in the New Year that can improve your physical and mental health.
6. Connect with Friends
Work is important, but so are friends. If you felt distanced from the group this year, make an effort to connect with your friends in the upcoming one, and it will help more than just your mental health. Taking the time to hang out with others can increase your longevity, along with reducing the risks of stroke, heart disease, and dementia. It’s a great way to have a few laughs, decrease stress, and improve your physical health.
5. Stop Smoking
If you smoke, it might be worth considering quitting this new year. Over 16 million Americans deal with chronic diseases caused by smoking, from lung disease to cancer. Plus, smoking doesn’t only affect you, but can expose loved ones to second-hand smoke, which in some cases is worse than first-hand. So, instead of buying a new pack, research ways to cut the habit and increase your life expectancy.
4. Drink Less Alcohol
While holidays and alcohol often go hand in hand, the new year might be the time to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. The recommended limit per day is one drink for women and two for men. If you drink over the limit, it can expose you to short and long-term risks, such as impaired judgment, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even some cancers. Instead of having one every day, limit your drinks to certain days of the week or when you’re out with friends.
3. Improving Your Sleep
Ideally, you should be getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night, but many adults don’t hit this benchmark. Not only does lack of sleep affect your concentration and mood, but over time, it can hurt your hormone levels or heart health. Instead, try to implement a sleep routine to get your body and mind ready for bed, leading to longer and better sleep each night.
2. Prioritizing Exercises
Exercise is super important when it comes to physical health. It translates to other benefits, too, including improving your mood, preventing diseases, and helping you sleep better. There are many ways to add exercise to your routine. This may be workout classes at the local gym, team sports like soccer, or even a home workout session to get the blood pumping and your muscles loosened.
1. Healthier Diet
One of the most important health habits to consider is your diet. A poor diet filled with junk food and sugar can lead to numerous health risks, including coronary artery disease, diabetes, liver disease, and obesity. While changing your diet may be daunting, just substituting a few items each week can slowly have a huge impact on your health. Try to eat more fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, while staying away from sugary drinks, fried foods, or processed items.