Your Healthy 2019 Journey

Happy New Year! I hope your year is off to a good start.

Many people begin a new diet now to try and lose weight.  Unfortunately, once they are off of the diet, they will most likely regain the weight. It's best to adopt a healthy lifestyle so that you don't have to worry about the ups and downs of weight. Once you are used to making healthy choices, I have found that you don't have to really think about it as much. It becomes natural to want healthy foods. If you need a jump start, consider doing the 24-Hour Challenge and follow it with the SYOLifestyle.

It's important to include exercise in your routine. I recommend at least 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days each week. This can be broken into smaller segments if need be. As my mom got older, she would walk 10 minutes on the treadmill 3 times a day. I personally enjoy cycling, so I ride my indoor bike while I work. It's about finding out what you enjoy doing and then figuring out how to incorporate it into your schedule. Having an exercise buddy helps hold you accountable which will increase your chances of getting out there. Finding an exercise that you enjoy is key. It may be as simple as dancing to music in your house.

Try not to sit for long periods of time. Getting up and walking around for a couple of minutes each hour is good for your circulation. It also gives your mind a break if you are working on a complicated or stressful problem.

Be sure you are drinking plenty of water every day. If you don't like plain water, infuse it with fruit such as lemons, limes, oranges, strawberries, etc. Mint is also a nice addition. If you feel thirsty, your body is trying to tell you that you are dehydrated and need to drink more water. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and tired. It can also affect your ability to focus. You should drink more when you are exercising. I prefer to drink water throughout the day, so I don't leave home without it. I have found that I tend to drink more if I have a straw in a cup; therefore, I use a large Yeti-type cup with a reusable hard plastic straw.

Getting enough sleep is vital to good health. It repairs the mind and body. Setting a bedtime routine is important. Thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth, washing and moisturizing your face, and not looking at electronics are good habits to incorporate into your routine.

I hope that you have a successful and healthy year and many more to follow.

Here's to your health!