Make That Resolution When You Want

By Donna Stark

Isn't it true that when we have a bad day, we are thankful for a fresh start the next morning? Or when it's been a bad week, we are grateful to have the weekend ahead of us in order to recharge and start over? It's nice to have those moments to rest and pull ourselves together, isn't it? But what if you are having a bad year? You certainly can't sit around and wait for the next year to come around. That would be a lot of wasted time that could actually be used to make things better right away! The point is this: you don't have to wait until it's time to make your New Year's resolutions to make some healthy changes. Just go ahead and make them now!

You Don't Need a New Year

New years are great for new beginnings, but if you need to wipe the slate clean, or focus on health or fitness goals that have fallen by the wayside, then the time to do so is now! The beginning of a tough year can hit at any time throughout the 12 months, and if you need to readjust some behaviors, there is no sense in waiting. Have you been feeling run-down, unhealthy, and unmotivated lately? If so, check out the following suggestions on changes you can make now!

• Prioritize health expenses - The biggest health expense is often health insurance, but don't forget to make room in your budget for the smaller things, such as organic foods, vitamins and supplements, a gym membership, chiropractic care, and massages. If your health is important to you, then make these a priority in your budget.
• Prioritize time - Just as the expenses are important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, so is your time. It's important to carve out those hours during the day to cook at home, exercise, see your doctors, get that restorative healing, and relax.
• Prioritize sleep - We've all heard that we need to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep, but did you also know that it matters when you get that sleep? Research has shown that going to bed before 11 p.m. is helpful for regulating your sleep.
• Prioritize water - Staying hydrated is one of the most vital, yet simple health habits you should have. If you know you need to drink more but are bored with plain water, just add some fruit. Lemon is the perfect choice because, in addition to flavor, it also adds vitamin C and potassium.
• Prioritize exercise and nature - Cross two things off your list at once by exercising outdoors! In addition to maintaining your health, weight, and fitness, you will also be able to improve your moods, reduce stress, and get some much-needed Vitamin D in your system.

Start a New Year at Any Time

Be kind to yourself. We all deserve a fresh start, no matter when that happens! So if a change is important to you, go ahead and make it. You're always going to have a new year ... it just doesn't have to start when everyone else begins theirs.

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