Kickstart Your Health Goals This New Year

We all want the first page of our new diary or notebook to be both legible and attractive, right? It's kind of like the haiku of the book. A new year symbolizes the start of a new chapter in your life. Seriously, if not the New Year, when else would be a good time to kick off some positive resolutions? If you're feeling a bit lost on what to choose, don't worry! Here's a quick list of resolutions we've put together for you.

1) Opt for Stairs

Do you think climbing stairs is a silly resolution? If you do, it's time to rethink that! The COVID-19 pandemic has led many of us to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity and related health issues. With work-from-home setups, we often find ourselves glued to screens all day. Engaging in physical activities, such as taking the stairs, can significantly improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes^[4]. So, whenever you get the chance, take the stairs! This simple choice can really pay off in the long run.

2) Dive into Books

Let's be honest, our phones can be pretty addicting, and they've kept us away from reading. Picking up a good book is like a workout for your mind. It keeps you engaged, enhances cognitive function, and helps you learn something new. Studies suggest that reading can improve empathy and reduce stress, making it a valuable mental health exercise^[5]. So why not put down your phone and start filling your book racks instead? You might be surprised at how enriching it can be!

3) Prepare for Travel

When was the last time you packed your bags for a trip? The pandemic might have put a damper on your travel plans, but it's time to change that! Trips don't always have to be long vacations. Even short getaways can refresh your mind and improve mental well-being. Just remember to get your COVID vaccinations, as vaccination significantly protects against severe COVID-19 and reduces the risk of hospitalization^[4]. Follow safety guidelines, and avoid high-risk areas to ensure a safe travel experience.

4) Save a Portion of Your Income

It's not fair to blame your salary for not having savings. When you receive your paycheck, set aside a specific amount for savings before you even think about your expenses. Research shows that having a savings plan can reduce stress and anxiety related to financial uncertainty^[1]. Seriously, don't wait until the end of the month to see what's left for saving; that strategy rarely works!

5) Give Back to the Environment

New Year resolutions shouldn't only be about personal goals. It's important to make resolutions that benefit our environment too. Learn how you can reduce pollution and your carbon footprint. Try planting a sapling each month, conserve water, use electric vehicles, and opt for public transport whenever possible. Engaging in sustainable practices not only benefits the planet but can also enhance your physical and mental health by fostering a sense of community and purpose^[2].

But here's the catch: just making resolutions without a solid action plan won't get you anywhere. You need to plan how to achieve them. Remember, the success of any resolution is ultimately in your hands. Wishing you a happy and prosperous New Year!

Content published on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek information from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website.