Five Healthy Habits to Work Into Your Routine in 2019
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Lifestyle
Instead of making impossible New Year’s resolutions that deprive us of what we want (just to crave it even more), we’ve set our sights on realistic habits that we can incorporate into our lives over the course of the year. Because, let’s be honest, those “no sugar for 2 weeks straight” goals usually score us a date with a tub of ice cream and a few candy wrappers a few days later. To help you reach your health goals sans the drastic diet changes, we’ve listed five slow and steady resolutions to incorporate into your life to ensure 2019 is your healthiest and happiest year yet.
1. Eat more plants
Want to lower your stress levels and get that #IWokeUpLikeThis glow? Try eating superfood veggies at every meal. These foods are not only low in calories, but they contain essential minerals, vitamins, fiber, and enzymes that boost your digestive system, clear your skin, and give your body the nutrients it needs. Tip: Make it a rule that you incorporate veggies like kale, spinach, micro greens, cauliflower, or avocado into at least one meal a day, so that even if you slide off the healthy eating wagon, you know your body is getting some excellent healthy fats and nutrients.
2. Create goals
If you don’t have your eye on something specific, how are you supposed to reach it? It’s important to set daily or weekly goals for yourself (whether it be working out three times a week or finishing a report days before a deadline) so that even when your life feels hectic, you remember what you’re striving for. We recommend making a point to write down three achievable goals every day while on your commute, so that when you’re on your way home you can feel accomplished checking them off.
3. Drink one extra glass of water a day
We all know the benefits of drinking H20 (less headaches, feeling fuller, better skin, etc.), so plan a special time of day when you’ll drink a tall glass of water even if you don’t feel thirsty. If regular water is too plain for your taste buds, try incorporating yummy fruits like lemon or cucumber to spice up your sip while also adding vitamin C and B-5. This healthy habit, along with carrying a water bottle during the day, is the easiest way to get healthy in 2019 with minimal effort.
4. Learn to let go
Whether you’re holding onto a grudge or still thinking about something that occurred last year, it’s time to let it go and move on. Letting go of something or someone can be extremely difficult, but once you’ve done it, you’ll feel relieved and able to move forward. So let go of the past, and set your sights on the future!
5. Snack only when you’re hungry
It’s easy to throw a bag of popcorn into the microwave or reach for a snack just because you’re bored or watching something on Netflix, but this year try to be mindful not only about what you’re eating, but why you’re eating it. Most of us aren’t even hungry when we indulge in a sweet treat, so next time you find yourself walking over to the pantry, think about whether you’re actually craving food or just looking for something to do.