I think we can all agree that 2020 is a year that we will be happy to see the back of. We all have hopes that 2021 will be a better year, and we are keen to make plans and make the most of our time.
Below are some ideas for very simple, achievable resolutions that will improve your health in 2021:
Stretch
If you can spend just 5 minutes a day stretching, there are loads of benefits. Some of them are:
Increases your flexibility
Increases your range of motion
Improves your performance in physical activity
Increases blood flow to your muscles
Improves your posture
Helps to heal and prevent back pain
Great for stress relief and can calm your mind
Helps decrease tension headaches.
Walk
Walking doesn’t need any special equipment, doesn’t cost anything and can be done anywhere and at any time. It is also hugely beneficial, so try to include walking into your daily or weekly routine. Walking can help:
Burn calories
Strengthen the heart
Lower your blood sugar
Ease joint pain
Boost your energy
Improve your mood
Extend your life
Tone your legs
Drink Water
Most of us could do with drinking more water. Here are some hints to easily incorporate more water into your daily life:
Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up
Drink a glass of water before each meal
Keep a reusable bottle with you
Keep a jug on the side to monitor how much you are drinking
Set yourself a reminder to drink
Use cordial or sliced fruit or cucumber to flavour your water if you struggle to drink it plain
Replace one hot drink a day with water
If you get a headache drink water before reaching for tablets.
Try Something New
They say variety is the spice of life
It might be a different type of fitness class you haven’t done before, or one you have never heard of before.
It might be starting to swim or run.
It might be as simple as trying a fruit or vegetable you haven’t eaten before.
Try to do Less of Something Bad
A little bit of what you fancy does you good, but small reductions can benefit your health and your waistline.
Have one less alcoholic drink a week
Have one less coffee a day
Replace one dessert with fruit or low-fat yoghurt
If you take the car to the local shop, try walking
If you take the lift, try the stairs
If you fall asleep on the sofa, try going to bed sooner
This year has shown us that there is no time like the present, so if you have always wanted to try it, or have been meaning to get back to it, do it.
The most effective changes are ones that are small, manageable and sustainable. Try to not strive for too much at once. Form one habit at a time, and once that has stuck, form another one. By the end of the year you will be amazed how much progress you will have made.
Some fab ideas. I’m pleased to say I already do some of these things, but drinking more water and not falling asleep on the sofa are 2 resolutions I should definitely make! x