A New Year, A Better You in 2012
As each year comes to a close, we all tend to make New Year’s resolutions, typically declaring to start something new. It’s now one month into the New Year, are you still following your New Year’s resolution? Making the resolutions is the easy part; the tricky part is sticking to them. However, making realistic goals and making small changes might actually help you achieve some of your New Year’s resolutions. Thinking positively and focusing more on what you’re gaining rather than giving up will help you stick to your resolutions more long-term.
Develop better eating habits
The foods we choose have a huge impact on our long-term health and well-being, but with busy schedules eating healthy doesn’t always seem like a convenient option. Plan ahead by making a weekly menu and only buying the ingredients you need for each dish that week. In the beginning it may take extra time that you don’t feel you have to spare, but after a few weeks it will become habitual and you will realize the value of planning ahead by saving time and money. Whipping together a broccoli-carrot Frittata with a side of roasted vegetables and potatoes, along with a side salad of mixed greens makes for a quick and easy dinner. Make it fun by getting the family involved in planning the weekly menu or swap favorite healthy recipes between friends and family members. Check out our recipes for delicious and easy meal ideas.
Broccoli-Carrot Frittata Recipe
Help the environment
Growing concerns and awareness for the environment prompts people to resolve to live a greener lifestyle now more than ever before. Looking for some ideas? Develop a recycling system in your home by having separate bins for plastic, paper and trash. You will want to check with your trash service to see if they offer a recycling service. When you go out shopping, bring your own reusable bag. This preserves resources by cutting down on the large number of paper and plastic bags that are discarded after a trip to the grocery store. Buy reusable water bottles instead of single use ones. This will not only reduce plastic waste, but will save you money as well.
Give to others or volunteer
Clean out your pantry and closets. There are a number of local and national organizations that that accept clothing and food donations. Find a local charity with an initiative that is dear to your heart. Volunteer a couple hours a month or several hours a week. Either way you will feel more inspired and fulfilled.
Exercise more
Try to exercise three times a week. Find what works for you, whether it’s walking for 20 minutes in your neighborhood or signing up for a local group exercise class…just get moving! Exercising and building lean muscles is the absolute centerpiece for being healthy and vital. Most calories are burned within the muscles, so having more muscle means burning more calories. I personally prefer joining group exercise classes. The music is always fun and up beat as well as the people and I enjoy the group setting. It helps me stay motivated in my exercise program, I never get bored and like being able to choose my specific intensity level.
