A new year is always the occasion for a new beginning, a new beginning. This is one of the main reasons why so many of us make New Year’s resolutions. Turning the page on the calendar gives us the opportunity to turn the page on unhealthy habits, resolve to be better, healthier versions of ourselves, and look to the future with hope for what is to come. .

As we look to the future, there is certainly a lot to be hoped for in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is always essential for our health, and the health of others, that we continue to do all we can physically to stop the spread of this disease by continuing to wear our masks, maintaining social distancing and practicing good hygiene. hands until the pandemic is safe at the end.

In addition to these essential precautions, there are a few key things that can help you achieve and stay healthy in 2022 and beyond. Here are some resolutions to take good care of yourself, because there’s no better time to focus on your health than right now.

EAT HEALTHY

There is a reason why healthy eating is always mentioned as a major contributor to your health. Eating a healthy diet can lower your risk for diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. It can help boost your energy, sharpen your mind, and improve your mental health. Simple changes can help make a big difference:

• Include more vegetables, fruits, lean protein and healthy grains in your diet.

• Plan your meals for the week to ensure healthier eating and less temptation at the grocery store.

• Drink more water instead of sodas and other sugary drinks.

• Read labels before you buy food to make sure you are buying foods that are high in the right nutrients and low in saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium and sugar.

Above all, be realistic. Changing your eating habits overnight is difficult, so make your healthy eating change easier and longer by making one or two healthy changes per week. It will build up over time and help you maintain your new, healthy eating habits.

TO MOVE

Physical activity is one of the best tools for improving or maintaining good physical and mental health.

• Regular exercise can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk of heart disease, strengthen your bones and muscles, and reduce stress and anxiety.

• As little as 30 minutes a day can be effective. If you’re not used to exercising regularly, or feel like you don’t have time in your schedule for this, try simple activities like taking a lunchtime walk, playing in the garden with your kids or pets, or a home workout guided by an aerobics or yoga video. The important thing is to move.

STAY IN MASTER OF YOUR HEALTH

Taking charge of your health is essential to your overall well-being. Building a good, trusting relationship with your doctor and scheduling annual physical exams can play a big part in helping you do this. Annual checkups can help prevent surprises and unwanted health setbacks, aid in the early diagnosis of any condition to help achieve the best results, and allow you to discuss your health concerns comfortably and in confidence. Your doctor can also make sure you’re up to date with key health figures such as your blood pressure and cholesterol, keep you on top of any needed vaccinations, and help you manage any chronic illnesses you may have.

REDUCE STRESS

We have all experienced some level of stress at one time or another. It’s a natural reaction when things aren’t going as well as we would like. However, stress management is important for maintaining physical and mental health. Too much stress can cause depression and increase blood pressure and weight gain, among other dangers to your health.

• Try to identify your “stressors” and learn to manage your stress. Eating healthy and exercising are a big help; so if you follow the first two tips you are on the right track.

• Remembering to breathe, being prepared and flexible when events and situations don’t go as planned, and indulging in a favorite activity are other great ways to help manage stress.

• Remember that it is okay to ask for help. Talk to a trusted friend or loved one, or seek a mental health professional to discuss what you are going through.

Whether you’re pushing your health reset button or looking to make improvements in a specific area, it’s important to remember that your health journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Making a lot of changes overnight is an overwhelming task. Be realistic about where you are now and what you can maintain.

For example, this week, consider adopting a new healthy eating pattern or two, getting active with physical activity for a few days, and making an appointment with your doctor for your annual checkup. Then, as you progress, you can incorporate healthier habits into your daily schedule. Just like with healthy eating, small changes can add up and help ensure your health is a long-term success for 2022 and beyond.

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