Simple New Years Resolutions That You Can Actually Keep

It’s halfway through January and I hope your new years resolutions are in full swing. You may have noticed that the gym is more full and the yoga studio is a tighter squeeze. While I am a big fan of resolving to live a healthier life, I think New Year resolutions usually don’t last, leaving us frustrated. I wanted to give you some simple some resolutions that you will actually keep and will improve your health on multiple levels.

The key to successful resolutions is keeping them simple and achievable. This will increase your chance to actually stick with the changes you want to make. Start with small steps before jumping to lofty goals. Also, challenge yourself to be healthier not just in your body but also in your mind and spirit. We need to respect all aspects of who we are and not ignore essential parts of what makes us truly healthy.

1) Sweat more – This resolution seems simple but it actually covers a lot of key bases. Instead of resolving to exercise more, make a commitment doing something that gets your sweaty at least once a week. This could be doing a spin class at the gym, going for a run, lifting weights, or doing a yoga class. It can also be something very simple such as climbing a flight of stairs or going for a brisk walk. It will be different for each person but just as powerful. We often are afraid to get sweaty but it’s our body’s way to eliminate toxins and promote circulation. Don’t be afraid to sweat this year!

2) Eat less – I think we this is something we have all tried to do to lose a little weight. However, something so simple can be very helpful not just in cutting back on the extra calories but also promoting longevity. Studies have found that organisms that eat less live longer. Recent evidence shows that this approach promotes brain function and improves blood sugar control. Most North Americans over-eat so don’t fall into that trap this year and resolve to cut down your portions by as little as 20%. It doesn’t require calorie counting or weighing your food, just serve less food on your plate then you usually do.

3) Vent more – We can’t avoid getting irritated or angry. It can happen, especially when we are stressed and tired. The key thing is what we do with that anger when we experience it. A recent study found those people that internalized anxiety ran the risk of an elevated pulse, which increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and other ailments. This year resolve to vent or discharge your frustration or angry in a healthy way. This can be something like conscious deep-breathing, exercise or even try martial arts or yoga.

4) Sleep more – Sleep is one of the most important things you can do to maintain good health. Numerous studies have found that sleep improves immunity, increases the ability to cope with stress, and improves weight loss by cutting cravings. I often tell patients that the single, most powerful change you can make to improve your health is to go to bed one hour earlier. There are so many health benefits from making this simple resolution.

5) Be silent more – Just as you have to exercise regularly to build your muscle you have to also prioritize time to build your mind and spirit. The problem is that we are so use to getting things done by doing more, not slowing down and doing less. Taking the time to meditate, pray or just be silent is one of the most difficult things to do for most people. However, once you make it a habit it becomes the most rewarding. I challenge you to start with just 5 minutes a day to just sit and be still. Don’t do this right before bed or when you are distracted but rather be deliberate with putting aside time in your day. To focus on the right thing try this simple method. Pick one simple shape or image and focus on that thing in your mind. Take a stopwatch or timer (your smart phone has one) and start it. Every time you lose focus on that one image or shape, re-start the timer. You will be surprised how short your focus can be. Challenge yourself to do this daily and work towards getting up to 5 minutes without re-starting.

Making and keeping New Year’s resolutions does not have to be difficult. Implement these 5 simple changes and maintain them, even if you start by doing each one once a week. Remember, the road to failure is littered with good intentions. Make your 2013 resolutions simple and sustainable.

Have a healthy and happy New Year!

Dr Paul Hrkal