When the new year starts, people are quick to make ambitious health goals like losing 20 pounds this year or going vegan after enjoying a full rack of ribs on New Year’s Eve. Being healthy is more than just setting one significant goal for yourself, though. It’s about creating sustainable habits that work towards improving your overall health.
If your goal for 2022 is to start living a healthier lifestyle and maybe lose some weight, then you’ll want to create habits for yourself. It takes 21 days to form a consistent habit. That’s it!
Below are five healthy habits you can start in 2022 that will transform your health.
1. Drink More Water
You’ve heard it a thousand times. You have to drink more water. We all do, really. But sometimes, it isn’t as easy as it seems.
To make sure you’re getting enough water, start by drinking one big glass first thing in the morning. Yes, even before your beloved cup of coffee. Starting your day with a glass of water encourages you to drink more throughout it.
Also, have a glass of water with each meal and keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times.
2. Go for a Walk Once a Day
If you have a sedentary job where you sit at the computer all day, every day, it’s time to incorporate some movement into your routine. The more we sit, the more sluggish we feel.
Try going for at least one walk every day. It can be as short as 20 minutes or as long as two hours. No matter what your schedule allows, as long as you get outside in the fresh air and get your legs moving, it’s a step in the right direction of overall health.
3. No Caffeine After 4 PM
We don’t often think about our sleeping habits as part of our overall health, but they have a huge impact on it. Getting a good night’s sleep will keep you energized and clear-minded for the day ahead.
In order to get a good night’s rest, you should avoid caffeine after 4 pm. If you must have that afternoon cup of coffee, try having it earlier or choose a decaf version.
4. Take Advantage of Preventative Health
Nobody likes going to the doctor, especially when they feel fine. However, preventative care is a healthy habit you should definitely start in 2022. Go to your doctor for your annual physical and get your teeth cleaned twice a year by your dentist.
Doctor’s appointments don’t take as long as they used to these days. Many doctor’s offices use automation software like that provided by Amitech Solutions that speeds up documentation and gets you in and out of the office more quickly. You may even already receive automated reminders to schedule these appointments. If not, call the office and schedule them for yourself. It’s a great way to stay healthy and catch anything in its early stages.
5. Cook at Home
Try to cook dinner at home four nights a week instead of eating out or ordering in. Not only will this save you money, but you’ll have a chance to learn a new skill.
When you order food or heat up premade dinners, you have no idea what kind of hidden ingredients and chemicals are sitting in that meal. When you cook for yourself, you’re in control of what you put in your body.
