HAPPY NEW YEAR!
2009 was a tough year for most of us in various aspects, the harsh winter, H1N1 virus, job losses, a tough economy, and hard decisions – should I or should I not vaccinate my child or my family?
Having survived it, lets make 2010 a memorable and a healthy one, and lets start it off with some healthy resolutions that are simple and easy to keep.
1. Plan the week ahead – Try to plan out your week in advance, especially if you have problems staying motivated and stick the plan.
2. Plan your meals ahead of time. This will give you a heads up while going grocery shopping as you will ideally only purchase food items for your planned meals and avoid picking up junk food and unnecessary items.
3. Schedule some time for yourself daily, even if its 15 – 20 minutes at the end of the workday. Use this time wisely for relaxation or do something you enjoy doing.
4. Spend some quality time with your friends, family and especially your pets – they provide unconditional love and support whenever we need hence the least we can do is to spend quality time with them.
5. Laugh often – It is good for your heart and your health.
6. Sleep more. Try to get an additional hour of sleep. If you get 6 hours of sleep each night, try to get an additional hour each night. You will feel more energized and better recharged the next day. If you feel more tired after adding an additional hour of sleep, this indicates that the body is overly exhausted, and may need more than just sleep to recharge.
7. Try to vacation more often, even if it is a vacation at home.
8. Try to let go of the past and move forward. Create a list of positive affirmations and positive attributes you possess. Try to focus on the positives. You can stay stuck to a past or grudges that do not do much besides bring you down and creating unhappiness or you can decide to be free and HAPPY!
Well folks, there we have them. Please try to follow these resolutions. Have a safe, happy and healthy 2010!
By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.