Hello, 2024! Now that the new year is upon you, of course you’re motivated to start some healthier habits. Before you start picturing kale smoothies and marathon training, there are ways to make better-for-you choices with small, manageable adjustments that won’t feel like a complete lifestyle overhaul.
This guide has several tips, like finding a form of movement that you enjoy, making different food choices, and practicing mindfulness. So, grab a seat, and let’s take a peek at how you can weave healthiness into your daily routine and feel good in your body, starting right now!
Hit the Gym (or Discover Your Favorite Way to Move Your Body)
Alright, let’s talk about the “g” word: the gym. While the idea of lifting weights and running on a treadmill might not be your cup of green tea, finding ways to move your body that bring you joy is the key to sustaining the habit. The way to a long, active, and robust life is with consistency, and this includes your workouts.
Gyms offer a variety of options that are meant to help you find what works best for you and your schedule. Many fitness centers have classes (sometimes you need that motivation to get there on time, right?), free weights, a pool, and more. Try out a few options to see which ones you like. Once you do, you will see how much easier it becomes to mentally prepare yourself and enjoy the experience!
Now, getting to the gym means driving with everyone else who wants to start the year fresh, and you want to be safe by having the right protection on the road. Whether you’re driving to the gym or navigating through a neighborhood filled with fellow runners and walkers, staying safe is key. If you are considering making a switch in coverage, it’s a good idea to work with a company that is highly rated, like Freeway Insurance. They have an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars, and offer a variety of affordable plans… even if you don’t have a perfect driving record.
You don’t necessarily need to drive to the gym to still get a good workout in, either. The world is your oyster when it comes to being active. You can work out at home, or even in the great outdoors. If you like the idea of getting a two-for-one deal of fresh air and exercising, go for a walk or run in a local park. If you want to giggle while you shake what your mama gave you, turn on some music and dance in your living room. Lastly, you can put on a free video from YouTube or another streaming service and attempt yoga while you are still in your PJs!
Food and Nutrition: Simple Swaps
Let’s tackle the topic of nutrition because, let’s be real, you’re going to want your favorite treats at some point, right? Making new food choices doesn’t mean you have to embark on a leafy green-only diet, either. Instead, focus on simple and healthy alternatives that won’t leave you feeling deprived.
Swap out your afternoon bag of chips for a handful of nuts, and opt for raw options. Avoid nuts that are roasted, as many brands have too-high levels of fat and sodium. For sandwiches, choose whole-grain bread instead of the white stuff. If you struggle to eat your veggies, sneak some into your pasta sauce or try cauliflower rice instead of your typical grain rice. As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy all of your favorite meals… and we bet your taste buds won’t even notice the difference!
Mindfulness
Ah, the often underrated habit of mindfulness practices. Contrary to popular belief, mindfulness is more than sitting cross-legged for hours at a yoga studio (unless you’re into that sort of thing)… all it means is to find moments in your day to be present.
What does being present mean, you ask? Well, it’s the small things, like savoring your morning coffee, taking a deep breath during a hectic workday, or simply appreciating the beauty of nature during a stroll. You don’t need any fancy apps or equipment, either… anything that gets you out of your head and into your senses is a way to get grounded!
When you take a break from the chaos and clear your mind, your focus shifts to being in the now. Plus, regularly doing these practices can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, lower your blood pressure, and even sleep better. Do you see how when you take the time to be “here”, it is a small yet powerful change that can make a big difference in your overall well-being? How cool is that!
Kickstart Your Healthier Habits in 2024 Today: Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy!
Starting and maintaining healthier habits doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you’re finding joy in movement, making simple food swaps, or practicing mindfulness, it’s all about those small, consistent changes that make a difference in your overall wellbeing. Cheers to your health!