Tuesday Ten: Healthy Habits to Start Today
There’s no time like the present to start a running list of goals to achieve throughout the year. Most of us take the time to jot everything down at the beginning of the New Year, only to tuck the list away as soon as life gets busy. I know I’ve done this a time or two, and this year I kept my resolution simple so that I could look back and say that I finished what I set out to do. If you already have your New Year’s resolutions set in stone or are still working to perfect them, I thought I’d help you add a few more, but with a twist.
Instead of creating a new list of resolutions, I thought I’d put a new spin on an old tradition. This year I encourage all of us to form new and healthy habits (and drop the bad ones). My intentions are that these new habits will eventually become just another part of our daily routine, for the better. From habits as simple as stretching to more challenging ones like opting to take the stairs, the ultimate goal is to start and end the year on a healthier note. If this sounds intriguing, keep reading to see my full list of healthy habits we can all start today…
1. Be mindful of your posture.
Whether you’re sitting or standing, try to resist slouching your shoulders or slumping over. It’s easy to fall into this trap, especially if you sit all day at work, but with repetition it’ll be easier to adjust. These after work yoga poses are an easy way to practice better posture. Your body will thank you later!
2. Drink apple cider vinegar.
This miracle liquid regulates blood sugar, promotes a healthy gut, fights against acid reflux, lowers cholesterol, and can even benefit your skin. Take a half of a teaspoon with a full glass of water three times a day for optimal results.
3. Get a massage or facial more often.
It’s time to put your health and wellbeing at the top of your list. Facials and massages aren’t just for the occasional ‘treat yourself’ moments, but should be cycled into your routine every couple of months, or as often as you can afford to. Relaxation can do wonders on your mind and body.
4. Swap coffee with green tea.
As much as I love coffee, swapping this sip for green tea is a small adjustment in the right direction. Green tea still gives you a subtler boost of caffeine while benefitting your body with antioxidants.
5. Start your morning with a glass of hot water with lemon.
Starting your morning with a glass of hot water and lemon is an easy way to kick start your digestive tract. This allows your body to flush out the bad and rehydrates at the same time. A two-minute habit that can change your health for the better is OK by me.
6. Take the stairs more often.
This may sound daunting a first, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly your body will adjust. I encourage you not only to take the stairs whenever possible, but to also park farther away when you’re at the mall or grocery store too.
7. Bring your athletic shoes to work.
Treat yourself to a walk around the block on your lunch break. There’s no better way to break up a long workday than some midday exercise. You can even opt to take your phone conference calls or meetings outside and get your blood pumping that way too.
8. Add SPF to your skincare routine.
You’ll never regret healthy, glowing skin. Avoid early aging and skin cancer by incorporating a daily SPF into your skincare routine.
9. Meditate for 10 minutes a day.
Take time to pause, take a deep breath, and reflect every day. This can help relieve stress or help you reset when you’re having a tough day.
10. Stretch it out.
Stretching in the morning can help give your mind a body the boost it needs to tackle your to do list, while taking time to stretch at night can help your muscles and mind relax.
What healthy habits are your adding into your routine this year?
I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!
XO Lauren
Photos: Jessi Burrone
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