Each New Year’s Day brings about a sense of hope and renewal. It’s a fresh start for new beginnings and a great time to start or revive some healthy habits. The holidays are almost behind us and along with them the indulgence of pumpkin pies, sleeping in, and skipping workouts. In looking ahead, it’s time to set up a plan for a renewed healthy lifestyle.

What’s something you’ve been meaning to do or wanting to try? Have you been considering improving your physical health, your emotional state, or your diet? Take those goals and make each one specific, such as, “I will work out five days/week for a minimum of 30 minutes each day” or “I will meditate for 20 minutes every morning before leaving the house.” Setting detailed parameters makes each goal more attainable and helps to hold yourself accountable while keeping track of your progress.

Once you have your list of goals, try introducing one new healthy habit at a time. It’s easy to write a list on paper, but it can be intimidating to start everything all at once. Start one habit on the first of each month, then add another habit the following month. For example, if you notice you’ve been feeling lethargic and unenergetic, your goal list could include eating better and working out consistently. Start in January by first changing your diet. Cut out excessive sugars and fats in exchange for more leafy greens and colorful fruits and vegetables. By the end of the month, you’ll have been able to establish this habit and will feel the benefits of eating cleaner. Then, in February start a workout regimen. Commit to at least three days/week of strength and cardio workouts, like spin class, strength training, or HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). Round out the remaining days of the work week with slower paced activity focusing on deep breathing and stretching, such as yoga or pilates.

By the end of February, you’ll have been eating healthier foods for two months and will have already started to see and feel the difference one month of exercise will do to your body and mind. This step-by-step method of embracing your New Year’s goals will be less overwhelming and gives you a greater chance of fulfilling your resolutions.

If your goals include something that can’t be accomplished alone, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our offices provide an array of amenities, including regenerative services such as stem cell treatments and amniotic injections to help reduce pain and inflammation. Many of these services are outpatient procedures and can get you on your way to further embracing the healthy lifestyle you’re striving for every day. Not all resolutions can or should be achieved alone, and that’s where our doctors come in. Contact us for more information on how we can help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Even, or especially, during days when you’re feeling unmotivated, it’s important to stick to your plan and follow through with your goals. Health and wellness is important all year around, even during winter when the days are short and the weather is cold. By remaining consistent in working towards your goals, you’ll improve your physical and mental health while taking pride in knowing you’re keeping your promises to yourself. And just think, if you add one new resolution each month by the end of the year you’ll have successfully embraced 12 new healthy habits!

What are your health goals this New Year?