For me, the fall and early winter months are a time for reflection. I start to reminisce about the year gone by and think about my plans for the one ahead. Whether you’re the kind of person that thinks New Year’s resolutions are a little hokey or you like to create elaborate vision boards, it never hurts to set a few attainable goals that will help you to live a fuller, better, healthier life. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for setting resolutions that you can start following today and sticking to throughout 2023.
1. Get Enough Sleep
We all love to sleep, so who wouldn’t love to set a goal to get a bit more rest? I encourage you to take small steps to spend more time in dreamland. Consider heading to bed 20-30 minutes earlier than usual so that you feel rested and ready to meet each new day.
2. Meditate
Don’t let this one scare you away. I know some people think the idea of meditation is a little out there, but it’s a great way to center yourself, clear your mind, and invite health and positivity into your life. You don’t have to spend 20 minutes chanting “ohm” (although that’s completely valid!) to enjoy the benefits. Consider trying five minutes of quiet reflection or guided meditation every day. I bet you’ll see a difference!
3. Drink More Water
One of the primary reasons people start to feel run down and yucky is that they’re not getting enough water! This is such an easy fix, and you can easily commit to amping up your H2O intake. In fact, I just recently posted an entire blog about simple ways you can stay hydrated, even if you don’t care for water.
4. Exercise More
No one is asking you to run a marathon (or even a half!), but I am challenging you to get moving a little more this coming year. Set reasonable goals and expectations for yourself. Pick a form of exercise that you find enjoyable. Consider a morning stroll to start your day, a 10-minute dance party with your kids, or joining an adult kickball league. The more fun you have, the more likely you are to stick with it.
5. Prioritize Your Well-Being
Stop putting off visits to the doctor! Whether you’ve been avoiding your dentist, your primary care physician, or the psychiatrist, I want to encourage you to prioritize your health needs and set those appointments. Your body and mind will thank you for it!
6. Be Present
To wrap things up, make an agreement with yourself to be present as much as possible. You don’t have to practice this perfectly, but when you catch yourself drifting off into worry or stress, take a breath and bring yourself back to the now. Your mental and emotional health will benefit greatly.
Make the most of the rest of 2022 and live a happy life into 2023 and beyond. I’ll be here all holiday season and into next year, so stop back frequently for helpful suggestions from your friend – Dr. G!
The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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