The year is almost over. If you are one of those individuals who believes in making one or more New Year’s resolutions then the time has come.
About 50 per cent of the adults will start off 2017 with at least one promise to change for the better.
Statistics show six in 10 people drink alcohol regularly but only three in 10 get involved in regular exercise. Men are more physically active than women. Sixty per cent of the adults are overweight (BMI 25 to 30) or obese (BMI over 30). Forty per cent of the adults do not have adequate sleep. So there is lot to change.
I believe one should keep New Year’s resolutions simple. Eating healthy, doing physical exercise regularly, not smoking, avoiding alcohol or only drink in moderation, maintaining a healthy body weight, and sleep at least eight hours each night would be a good start.
You need only one resolution, “In 2017, I want to be healthy and stay healthy. I will apply the KISS (keep it simple stupid) principle.”
If you do not have self-discipline to accomplish your goals then there are many organizations and individuals who can help. YMCA is a good place to start.
Do not forget to spend time with your loved ones. No goals are complete without the love and affection of your partner and family. In fact get the family involved in your pursuit of good health and make it more fun. Keeping those you love close and making time for your family can be an important goal.
You should be able to find 15 minutes in a day to meditate. May be during lunch hour or in the evenings before going to bed. There are many physical and mental benefits to meditation. You will find this will provide significant reduction in your stress level.
Listening to music and/or reading a book in a quite place can be very peaceful and healthy. I find spending few hours in the library very relaxing and I am able to stay focused in what I am trying to achieve.
Most people find losing weight very difficult. Again the principal is simple. Eat less and exercise more. Try to lose 10 pounds in a year (not in a week or a month) and then you will find you can lose 30 pounds in three years. It can be that simple. Slow and steady wins the race. And apply the KISS principle.
A new study released a few days ago (British Medical Journal, Dec 13, 2016) says a positive outlook is relevant to your future health. Enjoying life can reduce stress, which in turn may prolong life.
OK you get the point. Personally, I do what I say in my book, “Dr. B’s Eight Steps to Wellness” – healthy eating, no smoking, exercise, stress relief, sleep, sexual empowerment, laughter and meditation. That works for me.
Happy New Year and may you be blessed with good health, happiness and lots of love and laughter in 2017 and beyond.
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