We all want to age gracefully and I want to age gracefully with a sassy attitude!

Do have things you want to accomplish this year? If so, make your well-being a priority…it’s the first step to meet any of your New Year’s goals. You want to feel energetic and ready to take on the world, but that won’t happen if you’re not taking care of yourself. Here are a few ideas to set yourself up for a healthier, happier, new year!

Look on the bright side.

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.” ~ Aristotle

Being happy is very important to good health. Emerging research shows that being happier doesn’t just make you feel better; it actually brings many health benefits. Starting each day with a positive outlook may seem hard right now, but it can have a very positive impact on your health. People with a positive outlook have lower rates of heart disease. One suggestion is to begin your morning with a daily meditation practice instead of immediately picking up your phone and looking at email or the news. Set an intention to take care of your mental health by looking on the bright side!

Rework your favorite recipes.

Everyone has been forced to cook more because of staying home and limited restaurants being open. You’ve probably improved your cooking skills, so why not focus on making your favorite recipes healthier. Try baking, broiling or grilling instead of frying and trade unhealthy ingredients for healthier ones. Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods. How about eating oatmeal with berries for breakfast and substituting zucchini noodles for regular pasta. It’s been proven that eating a greater variety of healthy foods means you are more likely to give your body the nutrients it needs. You can get more variety in your diet by exploring a new cuisine or a new restaurant. Check out this post for a few healthy recipes to make in January!

Schedule Your Yearly Doctors Appointments

I don’t like going to the doctor and if you’re like me, you may have used COVID as an excuse to put off scheduling those routine checkups, but this new year, make sure to schedule your appointments and cross that one off your list. You’ll be glad you did!

Commit to Moving Your Body Everyday

With gyms being closed and the business of the holiday season, you may not have kept up with daily exercise, but this should be a priority. “When you exercise, it increases endorphins, dopamine and adrenaline…brain chemicals associated with feeling good, being happy, feeling confident and capable. Exercise has also been shown to reduce anxiety and stress…two things that we all are experiencing right now. Exercising for just 30 to 45 minutes a day can significantly improve your health. Walking is one of the best exercises you can do, and, it’s free!

Work on your sleep habits.

Getting 7 to 8 hours (more for some) of sleep each night can improve your overall health. Having a consistent evening and morning routine and limiting screen time before bed is important to getting a good night’s sleep. “Research has found that exposure to blue light suppresses the production of the sleep hormone melatonin more than any other type of light.” Lack of sleep can raise blood pressure, cortisol levels (contributing to belly fat), and sugar levels. Stick to a routine even on weekends for consistently better sleep.

Streamline your skin care.

When it comes to your daily skincare routine, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Your morning routine can be as simple as a gentle cleanser, vitamin C serum, moisturizer and sunscreen.

In the evening, remove your makeup and cleanse your face. Exfoliate every other night with a retinol followed by a moisturizer and on alternate nights, use an alpha hydroxy serum followed by a moisturizer. Using products with active ingredients may be more expensive, but you’ll see the results you’re looking for.

This January…boost your skincare by having a Spa Day at Home! A little self care goes a long way!

Spend Time in Nature

Spending time outdoors, can lead to significant health benefits. Studies have shown that walking in the woods can improve blood pressure, boost mental health, and decrease cancer risk. Spending time outdoors can also keep us from being vitamin D deficient, especially in the winter months. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to mood changes, fatigue and muscle and bone pain. You may want to check with your doctor about adding a vitamin D supplement.

How is your start to 2021! I’m committed to showing up for you all every day with positive posts to make your life better!