….3-2-1…Happy New Year!! Somehow or other- we have made it through another difficult and
trying year and we enter a New Year with a new beginning. Unfortunately, at the present time
we are still faced with many of the same anxieties and uncertainties as we begin 2022. But
instead of dwelling on the negative past, I think it’s more important than ever to begin looking
forward instead. We’ve all had quite the year in 2021. It’s been tough for a lot of people- not
only in our community but around the country. And with that came a lot of negativity, anxiety
and lethargy. But as much as I think (as we all probably do) that it will continue for a period into
2022, there are also many things we have to be grateful for and to look forward to. At a time
when it may feel like we are moving backwards to more isolation and restrictions- we can also
look forward and stay positive in the knowledge that the time will come when we can do all the
things we love again. Remember, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
So as a way of moving forward- we should aspire toward improved health in 2022. I thought I
would share these 22 easy tips on starting the New Year off on the right foot that I found on the
Health Advocate Blog:
1. Drink more water. Water is a healthy, calorie-free and a sugar-free beverage option.
2. Add 10 minutes of exercise to your day. If you don’t already exercise, aim to do 10
minutes each day. If you do currently exercise, add 10 extra minutes to your routine.
3. Get moving at work. Aim to stand up more often, or take a quick walk or stretch break.
4. Go to bed 10 minutes earlier. By the end of the week, you’ll get an extra 70 minutes of
sleep. Keep it up all year, and you’ll have slept 60 hours more. Imagine how well rested
you’ll feel!
5. Commit to one healthy stress-relieving activity per day.
6. Transfer money to your savings account when you get paid, rather than waiting to see
what you have left after your monthly expenses.
7. Each day, find a way to eat an extra serving of fruit or vegetables. You may have more
opportunities than you realize!
8. Dedicate at least 5 minutes of your lunch break to walking. Not only will it help you be
more active, but it can also help you relieve stress.
9. Spend more time with family and friends to relieve stress, laugh more and relax—all of
which can help you increase your well-being.
10. Make it a habit to appreciate all you have and the important people in your life.
11. Work on your posture by keeping your head up, as if you were balancing a book on your
head. Avoid slouching!
12. Skip the salty snacks or sweet treats and go for fruit to round out packed lunches.
13. Brush and floss your teeth. Get in the habit of brushing twice and flossing once per day.
14. Control your portions. Limiting your portions is necessary for healthy eating and weight
management.
15. Reorganize your kitchen. Throw out or donate foods that are too tempting. Place healthy
foods at eye level and in front of unhealthier foods. Clear your counter of treats and junk
food and replace them with a bowl of fresh fruits and vegetables.
16. Always keep moving. Even if you’re already exercising, if you spend long periods of
time being inactive, it can be bad for your health.
17. Take time away from your screens (cell phone, computer, TV, tablet, etc.).
18. Visit your doctor for an age-appropriate preventive exam such as a physical, blood
pressure check, and more.
19. Mind your manners. “Please” and “thank you” can go a long way when interacting with
others. It demonstrates respect and appreciation.
20. Balance work and home life. Leave work at work and home at home and make the most
of your time in both places!
21. Trade your dessert for an after-dinner stroll.
22. Avoid work burnout. Take your designated breaks as often as you are able. Limit the
number of days you go in early or stay late. Plan to take time off for personal days and
vacations. When you’re away from work, avoid checking emails and voicemails, if
possible.
By trying some or all of these ideas on a weekly basis this month- we will be setting the tone for
a more positive and healthier start to the New Year!