It’s a new year! Have you made any health resolutions? For example, you may want to focus on getting in shape, eating well, and taking proper breaks from work. Well, today is the perfect opportunity to reflect on what you want this year, how you can prioritize your health, and the lifestyle changes you may need to make to achieve this.
Setting clear and simple health goals can have a significant impact on many aspects of your life and help you build good habits or break bad habits. This 2023, mark a new year with these simple habits to help you achieve your health goals!
Sit Properly
Most of us tend to sit in a C shape, which causes strain on the spine and can result in lower back, neck, and shoulder pain. Adjust your chair so your feet rest flat on the floor or a footrest and make sure that your thighs are parallel to the ground. Sit up with your back straight and relax your shoulders. If you’re able to, get up and move around for 10 minutes for every hour of sitting.
If you notice persistent back pain, getting early medication attention can help to prevent more serious complications. Consider consulting a reputable orthopedic specialist for advice or more detailed posture exercises.
Consume Less Sugar
Consuming too much added sugar has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cancer, and other health issues. Don’t worry — this doesn’t mean you have to forgo dessert entirely.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with healthier alternatives that have less added sugar, such as nuts and seeds, fresh fruit, and greek yogurt. By replacing sugar-heavy desserts, you can minimize your sugar intake while also increasing your intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Learn Effective Stress Management Techniques
Did you know that chronic stress can increase your risk of anxiety, depression, diabetes, and heart disease? While there’s no magic pill for mental health, you should learn effective stress management techniques. Do something that makes you feel good for even 15 to 20 minutes each day, like playing a game on your phone, going on walks in nature, or listening to your favorite music.
Sharing the things that are stressing you out can also help you feel better. You can talk to a member of your family, or a reliable friend, or consult a mental health expert.
Schedule Your Doctor Appointments And Follow-ups
Don’t put off seeing the doctor. Schedule and attend all of your doctor appointments, especially the mandatory follow-up appointments, tests and referrals.
Early intervention can help you prevent significant health problems and maintain ongoing treatment for other chronic conditions you may have. So book your general and specialist appointments now, including any that may require several consultations throughout the year.
Keep your goals simple and be patient with yourself. Remember that change is a process. If you want advice and assistance to help you achieve your health resolutions, you can see a doctor anytime on the DA app. Download the app now to get started!
Sources: