As we dive into a brand new year, there’s no better time to focus on all aspects of your health. After all, your overall well-being is determined by how well you care for your body, mind, and soul, so there is no better time to start.
If you want to kick off the year with a burst of energy and set the stage for your longevity, there are a few things you can do to build good habits starting right now. These tips include spending more time in nature, setting attainable goals, and eating whole, nutrient-filled foods. Let’s explore how all of these strategies will help you feel your best now and in the future!
Spend More Time in Nature
The great outdoors offers more than pretty scenery… it also has healing properties for your health. Nature is an amazing remedy for the mind, body, and soul.
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to get your fresh air fix is by going for a stroll through a nearby park. When you are surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, your body starts to relax. Being with Mother Earth has many benefits, like lowering symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. If getting outside means you feel better, it’s a no-brainer!
If you want a little more adventure, hit the road to explore areas near you instead. For example, drive to local trails to go for a hike, or check out a nature reserve. Another option is to create riverside retreat by finding a quiet spot by the water, pulling out a book, or just watching the gentle, watery flow pass by as it provides a tranquil backdrop. No matter which way you choose to experience the elements, you will feel rejuvenated and ready to take on whatever comes your way.
Whether you’re heading to nearby trails or finding solace by the water, you want to make sure you are protected on your drive there. To stay safe, it’s wise to have an insurance plan that can protect you during any of your nature escapades that involve a drive. If you are looking for a new plan, you may want to consider Freeway car insurance. They offer affordable plans… even if your driving record isn’t perfect. Call or visit their website for more info.
Set Small, Attainable Goals
Do you know what’s interesting about achieving your goals? The secret to experiencing big wins is that you need to set small, attainable steps that will help you get the results you want.
It’s not a mind trick (and it also kinda is), but breaking your goals down makes them feel more manageable and attainable. Plus, when you celebrate your small wins, you build confidence, which has a cumulative impact on your overall well-being.
Do you always say you want to lose x number of pounds or shed y number of inches every year? If you do, well, that doesn’t even sound fun, and it’s not really realistic nor attainable, either. The good news is that changing your perspective and language about your goals can make a huge difference.
For example, instead of obsessing about how many pounds you want to lose, change how you talk about your experience. For example, choose supportive wording, like, “I commit to moving my body more every day.” You feel better about yourself already, right? Of course, you do! Making a healthy commitment to yourself is the ultimate act of self-love and self-care, which are some of the most important aspects of your overall health and well-being.
Now, to get moving more, you’ll want to come up with ways to meet that daily goal. Some ways to easily integrate this into your routine are by walking around the block during your lunch break, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking your car in the back of the lot before going into the store, or having a “just because” dance party in your living room. As you can see, movement is the medicine that feeds you from the inside out… so get out there and shake what your mama gave you!
Prioritize Eating Whole, Nutrient-Dense Food
The mind-body connection is closely linked. When you eat better, you feel better. So, if you want to feel good in your body and have the energy to do the things you love every day, you need to eat plenty of nutrient-dense foods.
Whole, natural foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and energy you need for your mind and body to function properly and stay strong. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in iron, folate, antioxidants, and vitamins A and K, which are essential for energy production, a healthy immune system, fighting inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health, promoting bone health, and supporting healthy vision. Whew – they don’t call them “supergreens” for nothing!
You also want to eat a variety of colorful veggies, like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. These foods are loaded with vitamin C and beta-carotene, which boost collagen production (which you need for healthy, glowing skin). It’s true… beauty really is skin-deep!
Lastly, don’t forget about your lean proteins, like chicken and fish. Protein is important because it supports muscle growth and repair in your body. Omega-3s, like the ones found in fish, have heart health and cognitive function benefits. And even if you follow a plant-based diet, you can still get plenty of protein with legumes, which are packed with fiber, and contribute to satiety and digestive health.
Keep Your Flow Going, Baby!
If you want to feel good entering the New Year after the festivities have settled, there are a few ways to do just that. You can drive to your happy place, set goals that make it easy for you to win, and nourish your body with nutrient-rich foods. Remember, your health journey is not about perfection… it’s about being consistent and appreciating all of your progress. With that, cheers to a year filled with health and happiness!