The New Year is here, and if you’re like most people, you’re hoping that 2021 brings health and happiness. While we can’t control your happiness, taking control of your health is a bit easier. In today’s blog, we share six tips for leading a healthier life in the new year.
Ways To Be Healthier In The New Year
You don’t have to make major changes to your daily life in order to be healthier in the new year. All you need to do is make a few simple changes. Here are six ways you can strive to be healthier in 2021.
- Walk More – Begin the year by making a commitment to walking more. Whether that involves going for a walk when you get home from work, hitting the treadmill before you head into the office or just walking around the house while you’re on that phone call, being on your feet will help with your circulation and strengthen muscles and ligaments in your ankles and feet. Walking can also help to keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. Walk more this year.
- Stand More – Similarly, strive to stand more in 2021. Invest in a sit-to-stand workstation at your office, or simply find a little time to break up long seated sessions. This is important to do at the office and at home if you spend a fair amount of time on the couch. Watch an episode of your favorite TV show on your feet, or read the next chapter of your book while standing. This will again help with circulation and help muscles get the oxygen they need.
- Eat More Greens – We don’t expect you to do something drastic like go vegan or keto as soon as the ball drops, but small dietary changes can slowly help to shrink your waistline and make you healthier. Try to add more greens to your diet in the form of vegetables like lettuce, green beans, brussel sprouts or kale. Swap out carbohydrate-dense snacks like crackers and chips for fruits or veggies, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier you in the new year. Every meal doesn’t need to be perfect, but small changes can go a long way.
- Take The Stairs – One way to get more steps in each day is to take the stairs when possible. If you work in an office or live in an apartment with an elevator, skip the free ride and take the steps more often this year. Taking the stairs will burn more calories, build more muscle and improve blood circulation throughout your body.
- Park Farther Away – If you can’t incorporate more stairs into your daily routine, find ways to force yourself to take more steps. If you have to drive to work or the grocery store, do your body a favor and park a little farther away from the entrance than you normally would. This way you’ll be forced to add more steps to your daily count. This simple change is something everyone can do in the new year.
- Get Small Pains Looked At – Finally, if you’re dealing with nagging back pain or joint discomfort, don’t just hope it goes away on its own. Have your injuries examined and diagnosed by a specialist. Oftentimes a physical therapist can provide a diagnosis and set you up with a therapy plan that can help alleviate symptoms. You don’t need to live with pain and discomfort in the new year when a quick visit to a specialist can get you set up on the road to recovery.
