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Shape Your Future: Setting Simple Resolutions for 2015

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January 1, 2015

The start of the new year always brings about new resolutions. Lose weight. Eat healthy. Exercise more. Stop bad habits. While it’s easy to make a resolution, it’s not always easy to stick with it! Many people drop their new goals entirely once they slip off track. Instead of making huge resolutions, why not make a couple of easy health and lifestyle changes that will benefit you in all areas?

Depending on your existing fitness lifestyle and healthy habits, you may be able to incorporate different levels of changes:

The Fitness Guru:

If you already make nutrition and physical activity a priority, your goal in 2015 should be to keep it up, and to try more new, healthy foods and activities, like:

  • Brussels sprouts. With their high fiber content, Brussels sprouts make you feel fuller with fewer calories. Roast them in the oven with balsamic vinegar for a tasty treat.
  • Kale. Kale is packed with vitamins K, A and C. Sautee it with onions and garlic for a hearty side dish.
  • Papayas. Their high vitamin A content helps keep your skin healthy. Slice up some fresh papaya cubes for a delectable addition to your fruit salad.
  • Yoga. Stretch your body… and your lifespan. Yoga gives you more energy and flexibility, plus it can help relieve stress.
  • Obstacle Course. Use objects around the house or yard to create an obstacle course for the family. Keep track of times, and challenge everyone to improve.

The Occasional Exerciser:

If you make healthy choices every now and again, it’s time to up your health to the next level. Make some simple substitutions:

  • Whole-grain bread instead of white. Whole-grain bread has more fiber and helps keep you full longer plus better texture and flavor too.
  • Low-fat milk or skim milk instead of 2%. You get the same amount of calcium and other essential nutrients but with fewer calories and fat.
  • Lettuce leaves instead of tortilla wraps. It’s a fun, easy alternative that will freshen up any wrap or taco dish.
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Every stair is a step toward a healthier life.
  • Take a walk break instead of a coffee break. If you need some energy, go for a brisk walk to wake yourself up. Ask a friend to go with you.
  • Play active games instead of video games. Unplug and play. Basketball, football, tennis, soccer, Frisbee… the options are endless.

The Newbie

If you’re just getting started, it’s time to take it slow. If you take too much on in the beginning, you might get overwhelmed and give up too soon. Start small and work your way up.

  • Add fruit to your cereal. Toss some banana or strawberry slices into your bowl for a nutritious addition.
  • Avoid sweetened drinks. Reduce risk for diabetes and weight gain by choosing water over soda and other sweetened drinks.
  • Pace yourself during mealtime. Eating too fast leads to eating too much. Take your time and enjoy your food, and stop eating the moment you feel satisfied.
  • Move during commercial breaks. Do jumping jacks or pushups, mini-squats, step touches, march or walk in place. Or try strengthening exercises like arm curls.
  • Park and walk. Park further away at work or the store and add some extra steps to your day.
  • Make chores fun. Race to see how fast you can clean the house, or sing and dance while folding laundry.

For more tips on setting your New Year’s goals visit ShapeYourFutureOK.com.

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