Don’t undertake impulsive health and fitness-related goals as we enter a new year. No, you can’t dramatically change your diet. And no, you can’t lose 20 pounds in 5 days. Such goals are unrealistic and they rarely translate into the desired results. If anything, since one fails at keeping up, such goals usually give the year a bad start. Instead, be more realistic about how you’re going to get healthier (both physically and mentally) in 2021. Admittedly, the task isn’t simple. But with proper planning, consistency, and small steps are taken every day – you can turn this new year into the healthiest year of your life.
For starters, make routine checkups at the doctor a part of your lifestyle. Why wait for something to go wrong before you act? Why not take preventive measures from the go? Regular visits to the doctor will keep you on the right track, ensuring you’re fit and fine. If you’re noticing any symptoms, discuss them with the doctor. Early diagnosis of any problem can make a significant difference in treatment.
For instance, if there’s thickness or swelling in a part of your breast, that could be one of the early signs of breast cancer. Google “mammography near me” and get your mammogram done. If you have swollen lymph glands, along with other symptoms like muscle aches, mouth ulcers, fever, and more – that could be an early sign of HIV. Get tested! Again, diagnosing the problem at the early stage can make the treatment easier, effective, and affordable. So, search “health clinic near me”, find an experienced doctor, and make it a point to visit them regularly for routine checkups.
In 2021, make time to work out every day. Even 30 minutes of daily workout counts. Get involved in basic cardio and strength training. Joining your local gym can be beneficial. But you can also invest in at-home gym equipment and exercise right at your home. Also, make early morning running sessions a part of your day. It can virtually change your life, improving not just your fitness but also your overall mood.
In 2020, the conversation around mental health gained massive attention (Although, a lot more is still needed.) Continue that trend by focusing on your mental health even in this new year. Don’t overlook or ignore if you feel dull or low most of the time; don’t shrug off your frequent mood swings; don’t assume that level of stress and anxiety is common. Hand in hand with a mental health professional, attend, and address these problems. Remember, good health is now just as much about how you feel in the head. So, pamper yourself regularly and invest in your mental peace and happiness.
As mentioned earlier, it’s the little steps you need to strive towards better health, and not impulsive goals. So, take a decision today to make 2021 a healthy year for you. Start drinking more water from tomorrow; replace cookies with fresh fruits from next week. The week after that, start prioritizing your sleep by sleeping 7-9 hours every night; from a week later, start meditating for 10 minutes every day; and so on. Decide and stay consistent. This new year is going to be great for you!
