New year resolution ideas: The pre-dawn run, peaceful yoga pose, workout sessions with your favourite person, or the satisfaction of eating healthy food? Tweaking your daily routine with these healthy habits will form the groundwork for a fitter and disease-free you in the new year.
It’s that time of the year again when the calendar flips, and marks the arrival of a brand new year. As you walk into 2024, it is customary to focus on setting resolutions. This year, prioritise wellness. Living a healthy life isn’t just about physical effort; it is a celebration of energy and wellness that carves a pathway to positive happiness.
Have you experienced living in the moment? The pre-dawn run, the peaceful yoga pose, the workout sessions with your favourite person, or the satisfaction of eating healthy food? Combining these minor changes in your daily routines may form the groundwork for improved well-being. Whether it’s opting for water instead of soda or dedicating some time daily for meditation, these small choices hold the power to shape a healthier life. Besides, such activities set the tone for a joyful beginning to the upcoming year.
Here are 7 small lifestyle changes you can implement in 2024 that may pave the way for noteworthy improvements in your health:
Take a walk: Walk away from laziness and onto the path, whether along streets, through parks, or on a treadmill. Engage in 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, as recommended by health experts, to promote cardiovascular health and mental well-being.
Munch mindfully: Say no to unhealthy eating habits and opt for healthier alternatives. Eat colourful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. They not only support overall health but also boost your immune system.
Taste the waters: Sufficient water intake is essential to maintain good health, sustain energy levels, and enhance mental clarity. Multiple studies have shown that staying adequately hydrated supports various bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient transportation, temperature regulation, and cognitive performance. It helps flush out toxins, supports joint health, and aids in skin elasticity, thus promoting your well-being.
Sleep tight: A good night’s sleep (7-9 hours every night) is important for cognitive abilities, mood stability, and boosting immune resilience. Adequate sleep is linked to improved concentration, memory retention, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, it aids in regulating emotions and reducing the risk of mental health issues. Sleep also plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system, aiding in the body’s defense against infections and illnesses.
Take a breather: Practice mindfulness practices or relaxation methods to reduce stress and improve mental calmness. Research indicates that engaging in mindfulness or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can significantly reduce stress hormone levels, reduce anxiety symptoms, and improve your emotional well-being. These practices can also enhance cognitive function and contribute to better stress management, promoting a balanced and healthier lifestyle.
Ctrl+Alt+Delete screen time: Studies suggests that the blue light emitted by screens inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, leading to difficulties falling asleep and reduced sleep quality. Cut back on screen exposure before bedtime to enhance sleep quality as prolonged screen exposure disturbs the body’s circadian rhythm, affecting the natural sleep-wake cycle. Plus, limiting screen time before bed can significantly improve the duration and quality of sleep.
Get social, ditch social feed: Strong social ties contribute to longevity and mental well-being. Focus on in-person relationships and social bonds; several studies indicate that robust social ties not only contribute to a longer life but also significantly impact mental well-being. Maintaining meaningful connections and actively engaging in social interactions can reduce the risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, strong social support has been linked to lower stress levels, improved immune function, and a healthier heart.
