How to Start the New Year on a Healthy Foot

By Donna Stark

Eating loads of junk food and binge-watching TV shows may be one of your most favorite activities to do but it certainly isn't one of the healthiest, is it? And going out for lunch instead of packing your own may be an easy way to hang out with your coworkers but it definitely isn't easy on the hips, that's for sure! So maybe, just maybe, instead of starting the new year with those unhealthy habits, you start it by changing your ways. Here are some simple suggestions on how to do so from your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic.

Add More Physical Activity

If you aren't very active during the day, you should try to incorporate more movement into your daily routine. Head to the gym, take a morning walk, join a yoga class, or go hiking on the weekends. There are so many things you can do that will increase the amount of physical activity you engage in, you won't ever have to worry about running out of options. 

Start Cooking Your Own Meals

In addition to saving you money, cooking and packing your lunches will also improve your overall health and wellness. By choosing all the ingredients that go into your lunch, you will have complete control with how much sugar, salt, calories, and fat you consume. And who knows? You may end up enjoying the meals you cook a lot more than the ones you buy at the restaurants.

Train Your Brain

Now that you're taking care of your body and your food, let's talk about what you can do to care for your brain. Reading books, solving puzzles, and learning new skills is a great way to strengthen your memory, improve concentration, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Optimal brain health is important for your overall well-being, so be sure to make it a priority!

Volunteer Your Time

You can do a lot more with your time than sitting around binge-watching your favorite TV shows. Volunteering in your local community is a great way to impact the lives of others while improving your own. Take a look at a few of the health benefits you can get from volunteering.

• Decreases the risk of stress, depression, and loneliness
• Increases a sense of confidence, purpose, and fulfillment
• Promotes more physical and mental activity

Starting the New Year on a Healthy Foot

Throw your unhealthy habits to the side and start the new year on a better foot! Exercise daily, watch what you eat, keep your mind active, and contribute your time and energy to those who need it the most. There is no better way to enter the new year ahead.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Encinitas, Calif.