If you haven’t taken the best care of yourself in the past year, setting big goals for the new year might seem like the perfect solution. Nearly 55 percent of New Year’s resolutions are health-related, such as exercising more, eating healthier, and losing weight. But vague goals can be hard to achieve, and according to Strava, most people give up their New Year’s resolutions by January 12. If you’re committed to setting clear, measurable goals for the new year, here are some easy ways to take control of your health.
Be More Proactive
Taking control of your health requires taking a proactive approach. Instead of putting off going to the doctor until you need to take time off from work due to an illness, or waiting months to schedule regular screenings and tests, set a goal to go to the doctor when you need to. Regular preventive care helps you stay healthy, reduces your overall medical costs, and allows you to enjoy more effective treatment options.
If you’re nervous or unsure about scheduling an appointment, bringing a trusted family member or friend can make you feel more comfortable. If you’re in college, between jobs, or struggling to afford health insurance, compare short-term health insurance quotes with Agile Insurance. Shopping for short term medical insurance online is quick, easy, and affordable, and it can significantly reduce your medical costs in the case of an unexpected accident or illness.
Focus On Your Diet
While finishing the day with a big dinner salad can feel like a win, cupcakes and ice cream can leave you feeling stressed and depressed. Even though we all know that eating healthy can make you feel better, Americans eat less than the recommended amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole-grains, dairy products, and oils.
According to a 2014 study, healthy dietary choices, like the Mediterranean diet, help stabilize mood, fight cravings, and keep depression at bay. Another study showed that the happiness associated with eating eight portions of fruits and vegetables a day was comparable to the happiness experienced by an unemployed person finding a job.
To encourage healthy eating, start by stocking up on convenient and healthy snacks, like fruits and nuts. Keeping healthy choices within easy reach at home and work will make it easier to fight cravings and make healthier choices. To measure your success, try keeping a daily food journal.
Make Time For Yourself
Balancing social life, work, and family can be stressful, especially when you’re trying to prioritize your health. Setting aside some solitary time for yourself each day—whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour—can help reduce blood pressure, relieve pain, and lower your risk of anxiety and depression.
If your schedule allows, make practicing yoga or meditation a habit. Mindfulness is associated with numerous positive effects on mental well-being, and studies have shown that meditation reduces anxiety levels approximately 60 percent of the time. Meanwhile, yoga lowers blood pressure, reduces chronic pain, and can help you squeeze a mindful workout into your day.
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Nearly 80 percent of people fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions, while just eight percent of people achieve their goals. Sticking to New Year’s resolutions can be hard, especially when there’s so much pressure to be fitter and healthier. Ultimately, setting small, achievable goals can help you stay motivated, make positive changes, and take control of your health this year.
