Happy New Year Everyone!!!
I hope this year is filled with lots of health and joy for all. Here are some naturopathic resolutions for this upcoming year to keep you healthy and happy (body, mind and spirit):
1. Exercise more often – Easier said than done, I know, especially with the winter months, its hard to get to the gym and work those muscles. May I remind you though, its even more important and beneficial to get some form of exercise in the winter months, especially for those people who suffer from the seasonal affective disorder.
Everyone knows about the benefits of exercise on the body and heart, exercising is also great for mood and for feeling better overall. So try to get at least 40 – 50 minutes/ day, 4-5 times a week of moderate exercise – such as biking, swimming, elliptical training or brisk walking.
2. Sleep more – The amount and quality of sleep affects every aspect of our waking life – concentration, memory, mood, energy, skin, immune system function, performance in general, hormones, you name it! Deep sleep helps to replenish and rejuvenate the body.
It is true that as we age we need less sleep, however, majority of the people barely get the required 7 -8 hours of sleep a day. So this year, aim for at least 8 hours a night. Early to bed, early to rise, makes one healthy, wealthy and wise!
3. Drink more water – Quite often people are confused about how much water their body really needs. The general rule of thumb here is 1/2 your body weight ( in Lbs) in ounces – so if you were 150 lbs, your body would need at least 75 ounces or approximately 9.25 glasses of water to detoxify your body of toxins and keep you hydrated, among other things.
4. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables – Brightly colored vegetables and fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that will keep you healthy and “young” looking, so the next time to reach out for that cookie, go for an apple or pear instead. Try to pack a variety of cut up vegetables for snacking for you and the family.
5. Nurture your inner self – Most people I know barely have a few minutes to themselves in a day. Its important to nurture one’s inner self in order to make yourself complete. You may have many achievements and accomplishments externally but do these really nurture your soul?
This year why not try something selfish just for yourself … maybe a massage that you have been putting off or a Reiki energy healing session, how about trying some Yoga or Meditation? Enroll yourself in that class you have wanted to go to for so long.
6. Adopt a pet – Pets are loving and kind and keep on giving unconditionally. They are wonderful beings to come home to. Check your local shelter if you have been thinking about having one.
7. Spend more time friends and family – This goes without saying and is self explanatory, right? Life is short and times spent and memories made with loved one are precious, so take advantage of the times you have with your loved ones, and remember where is the time to hate and bicker, when there is so little time to love.
Let bygones be bygones and love wholeheartedly, without reservation.
Well folks, this is it for the naturopathic resolutions for this year. Please remember to have fun and enjoy. Have a safe and happy 2009!
By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.