It's hard to believe, but 2019 is right around the corner! The new year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh, and it's the best time to commit to bettering yourself and your overall health, physically and mentally. Here's a list of resolutions to jump start a healthier lifestyle. (Please note that for each of these, it's important to set an attainable, realistic goal specific to yourself!)
1. Drink more water.
This one seems simple, but the truth is that most people don't consume nearly enough H20 each day. I suggest you purchase a personal, reusable water bottle, and aim to drink however many of them a day. It works great for me!
2. Exercise more.
Make it apart of your daily routine, not just something you might do if you "have time." Create time! Your body will thank you.
3. Sleep more (but not too much).
Being a college student, I know how busy and hectic life can become. However, I also know that I feel much better and function more efficiently when I get a good night's sleep. Ensure that you're sleeping an adequate amount.
4. Eat better.
I myself love a good, greasy hamburger, or a couple scoops of ice scream (topped with chocolate chips, of course) after a long day, but those are the foods that should be eaten in moderation. In addition, eat larger meals in order to prevent unnecessary between-meal snacking.
5. Spend less time on your phone.
There's a reason Apple provides you with a summary of the time you spend on your phone each week: too much screen time is no good! Allow yourself to drift away from your cellular device from time to time.
6. Drink less soda/juice.
The truth is, soda and juices are just unneeded calories, and the amount of sugar in most of them is unbelievable. Think before you drink. Treat yourself to a tall glass of water instead: it's your body's favorite beverage!
7. Give yourself time to wind down.
If you're anything like me, your mind is probably always racing, and you're always going, going, going. It's crucial to allow yourself time to relax, maybe watch your favorite show for an hour or so, or pick up a book. Rest your mind and ease your mind.
8. Read more.
I know, this one sounds boring, but it doesn't have to be! Whether it's reading the newspaper each morning or browsing a magazine at lunch, reading keeps your brain sharp. Read for pleasure, or read to stay informed, just read. It's just as important to exercise your mind as it is to exercise your brain.
9. Better maintain your social life.
By this, I don't mean go out every single weekend. I mean check in on your friends and your family members. Let them know you care and you're there for them. Be the one to make the plans. Catch-up with old friends. After all, nobody gets a second chance to make new old friends.
10. Meditate daily.
No, you don't have to physically meditate. Simply do whatever makes your soul feel better. For me, I pray. I have a friend who does yoga each day. I have another friend who writes her daily thoughts in a journal. Take good care of your mind, and it will take great care of you.
This year, we're not quitting midway through February. This year, we're becoming healthier, happier people. Commit to you!