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This blog is packed with 18 easy and powerful healthy habits for the New Year to help you feel great and live a happier live!
I’m cozied up with a warm cup of something nice, thinking about that special New Year vibe that’s just around the corner.
It’s time to gently wave goodbye to the memories of 2023 and say hello to 2024 with open arms and an open heart.
It’s kind of like opening a new book – the pages are blank and ready for a fresh story.
I’ve been right where you might be now, with a list of New Year’s promises as long as my arm, but let’s be honest, most didn’t stick around for long.
So this year, I’m keeping it simple and sweet, and I want to bring you along for the ride.
I’m all about setting up small, tasty bites of habits—kind of like snacking, but on good-for-you routines that actually last.
I’m talking about those little tweaks and changes that don’t ask you to turn your whole world upside down overnight. Trust me, it’s the small stuff that often makes the biggest difference.
Let’s make this year our best one yet, full of health and happiness. Ready to start this adventure together? Let’s do it!
1. Drink Enough Water
Drinking enough water is a great habit to start in the New Year because it’s essential for our health.
Water helps all of our body’s systems work properly, including digestion and temperature regulation. It also helps to keep our skin clear and our minds sharp.
All you need to do is make sure you have water nearby throughout the day. Start with a glass when you wake up and keep a bottle with you to sip from regularly.
If you’re someone who spends many hours working on the computer each day, a good habit to start in the New Year is to keep a bottle of water right next to you.
Set a little reminder for every 15-20 minutes to take a sip. This regular nudge will help you get enough water for your body throughout the day. It’s a simple move that keeps you hydrated without having to think about it too much.
This way, you won’t forget to drink water even when you’re deep into your work. Plus, it’s a good reason to pause, stretch, and take a moment for yourself before getting back to the grind.
2. Drink Green Tea
Drinking green tea is a great habit to pick up in the New Year because it’s good for your health. Green tea has stuff in it called antioxidants which help keep your body from getting sick and can even help you stay looking young.
Green tea is also a much healthier alternative to sugary drinks or too much coffee. It has a moderate amount of caffeine, enough to give you a gentle boost without the jitters.
This can be particularly helpful if you’re looking to cut back on your caffeine intake but still need a little something to help with focus and energy levels.
Green tea is also famous for helping your heart, helping you keep a healthy weight, and can make your brain work better.
3. Add More Fruits to Your Diet
You know how people always say, “Eat more fruits”? I used to hear that all the time and I knew it was good advice, but I never really took it to heart until about a year ago. That’s when I decided to make a change and seriously add more fruits to my daily eats. And oh boy, what a difference it has made!
I’ve been on this fruit-adding journey for about a year now, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer for my health. Every single day, I blend up a smoothie with a mix of berries—strawberries, blackberries, raspberries—and a banana for that perfect smooth touch.
After a few months, I noticed my skin was looking better than ever. No more of those annoying pimples popping up all the time. And another funny thing – my mornings got a lot quicker, especially my bathroom trips (haha)!
Adding fruits to my diet was one of those decisions that sounded simple but turned out to be incredibly impactful.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious path to a healthier you in the New Year, why not join me on the fruit smoothie bandwagon? Trust me, your body will thank you for it.
4. Eat More Chicken and Fish, Less Red Meat
For sure! Getting into the habit of eating more white meat like chicken or fish is a great choice for your health. It’s not as heavy as red meat, and it’s kinder to your heart because it’s not packed with the bad fats.
White meat is awesome because it doesn’t have as much fat, and that’s a good thing for our hearts. And eating fish is even better because it has special stuff called omega-3s, which are super good for keeping our hearts healthy and our brains sharp.
There are so many yummy ways to make these meats. You could bake fish with a little lemon, or make a spicy chicken stir-fry.
And you don’t have to stop eating red meat like beef completely; it’s just about having it less often.
Trying out some new recipes with chicken or fish can be a fun adventure. Maybe mix some turkey into your spaghetti sauce or have a grilled fish fillet instead of a steak.
It’s not hard, and it doesn’t have to happen all at once. Just one meal at a time.
5. Cook for Yourself More Frequently
I’ll tell you a little story – I used to be the kind of person who’d eat out almost every day of the week. It was just easier, you know? Grabbing something on the go, or sitting down in a cozy spot to be served felt great… until it didn’t.
A friend of mine spilled the beans about what sometimes goes on behind the scenes in restaurant kitchens. Let’s just say, it was enough to make me want to take control of what’s going on my plate. So, I started to cook more at home, and boy, it was a game changer!
When you cook at home, you know exactly what’s going into your food – no hidden fats, sugars, or things you can’t even pronounce. Furthermore, there’s something super satisfying about tasting a dish and knowing it’s your handiwork.
Don’t get me wrong, I still love a good meal out now and then, but now it’s more of a treat rather than the norm. My body’s thanking me, my wallet’s a bit fuller, and I’ve gotten pretty good at whipping up some tasty dishes, if I do say so myself.
Start with something simple, maybe your favorite dish, and just have fun with it. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about taking a step towards healthier habits, one home-cooked meal at a time.
6. Cut Back on Sugar
You might not know it, but sugar in your diet can lead to pimples. Not only can it trigger breakouts, but it can also make them bigger and more inflamed.
It was a bit of a shock to realize that my sweet snack could be contributing to those pesky pimples. Turns out, sugar can cause inflammation and that’s not a friend to your skin.
I started to really look at where the sugar in my diet was coming from and began cutting back.
I won’t lie, it was tough at first, especially when those sugar cravings hit.
But I found my groove by reaching for things like fruits when I wanted something sweet or flavoring my food with spices instead of sauces loaded with sugar.
Not only did I start feeling more energetic and less moody, but my skin thanked me for it too. Those breakouts? They became less frequent and didn’t stick around as long.
7. Cut Out Soda Almost Completely
Cutting out soda is a straightforward step that can have a big impact on your health.
Soda is packed with a lot of sugar, and drinking it often can lead to health problems like weight gain and tooth decay.
When you cut down on soda, you make room for so many benefits. Your teeth will be happier without all that sugar, you might find it easier to manage your weight, and you could even see a difference in your energy levels.
Water, on the other hand, keeps everything running smoothly—from your brain to your toes.
And if you’re thinking, “But water’s so boring!”—there’s a whole world of fizzy water with a hint of natural flavor, or you can make your own with a squeeze of lemon, lime, or a splash of 100% fruit juice.
Making the switch might take some getting used to, but give it a little time, and you’ll likely notice that you don’t even miss the soda. And, your body will thank you for it in the long run.
8. Do Meditation
You bet! When I first gave meditation a try, sitting still for even a short time felt kinda tough. So I started super simple – just one minute each day. And guess what? Even in that tiny bit of time, I felt a little less stressed and a little more peaceful.
Then, as one minute started to feel just right, I added another minute, and kept going like that. It was cool to see how those few extra minutes helped me concentrate better and sleep easier at night.
Honestly, I didn’t expect a lot at first, but those few minutes of quiet each day made me feel happier and more peaceful.
So, why not give it a try? Start with just one minute and see where it takes you.
9. Start Journaling
Starting a journal is really straightforward and can be super helpful.
It’s all about writing down what you’re thinking or how you’re feeling.
You can jot down what happened during your day, the highs and lows, or what’s buzzing around in your head.
The great thing about journaling is how it helps you get your thoughts out. When you write things down, it can give you a clearer mind and help you understand yourself better. Moreover, reading old entries can show you how much you’ve changed over time.
I’ve been keeping a journal for a while now, and it’s honestly been great. It’s a spot to celebrate the good stuff and work through the hard stuff, all in private.
Taking a few minutes each day to write has become a really important part of my routine.
By writing down my thoughts and what’s bothering me, I start to understand myself and my problems better.
It’s not like I figure things out right away, but the act of writing helps me process my thoughts deeply. And more often than not, as I’m writing, I start to see new ways to handle what’s on my plate.
So, even when a solution isn’t clear right off the bat, just the process of writing it all down and mulling it over can lead to those ‘aha’ moments.
10. Tidy Up Something Every Day
What if we made a little pact to straighten up one thing every day? Nothing huge, just something simple to get things looking and feeling good.
Take making your bed when you roll out of it in the morning. It’s super quick, right? Pull up the sheets, pop the pillows back in place, and just like that, your room looks a ton neater.
Hopping into a made bed at the end of the day is one of those little pleasures in life — trust me on that.
Then there’s the desk situation. We all know that one pile of stuff that just lives on the desk. How about we tackle that?
Each day, you could take a minute or two to put things where they actually go. Line up your pens, stash those papers, and maybe get rid of the crumbs from your afternoon snack.
A tidy desk means you can sit down and get to work or study without that “Ugh, where do I start?” feeling.
11. Do More Exercise
I’m not saying we should all sign up for a marathon or anything (unless that’s your jam, then go for it!), but what if we just aimed to get our bodies moving a bit more each day?
It could be as simple as a morning stretch session, a brisk walk, or even dancing around your room to your favorite tunes.
Honestly, once I started slipping in little bits of exercise into my day, I noticed some pretty cool changes. More energy, better mood, and hey, my jeans didn’t complain either.
It’s kind of fun once you find the activities that make you feel good. No need for a gym membership or fancy equipment—just your willingness to get up and have a little fun with it.
12. Ride Your Bike to Get Groceries Instead of Driving
You know, riding my bike instead of driving to get groceries has been a game-changer for me.
I decided not to use the car unless it’s super necessary. Since I work from home, it’s been a great way to add a little bit of outdoor activity into my routine.
It’s not a long ride, and the best part is that it takes me through this peaceful park and quiet streets, far from all the noisy traffic.
It feels so good to just be outside, feeling the breeze, hearing the birds, and not in a rush.
Even on days when I don’t really need to buy anything, I find myself jumping on my bike just for the sheer joy of the ride.
I never realized how much I’d enjoy the simple act of biking; it’s become a highlight of my day! It’s more than just exercise; it’s my moment of peace, a break from work, and a chance to just breathe and be in the moment.
13. Wear Sunscreen Every Day
My friends always ask why I look younger than I am. It’s not from expensive face creams or a secret trick – it’s just from using sunscreen every day.
I’ve been faithfully applying sunscreen every day since I turned 19. Doesn’t matter if I’m staying in or heading out, there’s not a day that goes by without it.
Some might say it’s overkill, especially since I work from home, but those UV rays don’t discriminate, even through windows!
It’s not a fancy brand or anything – any sunscreen will do. But this little daily ritual has been a game-changer for my skin. Not only does it protect against the sun’s harmful effects, but it’s also my stealthy move against premature aging.
14. Put on Lotion Right After You Shower
Putting on lotion right after you shower is really good for your skin. I learned this from some skin care tips online, and it’s true!
Before, when I got out of the shower, my skin felt dry and tight. But now, I pat myself down with a towel just so I’m not dripping wet, and then I put on lotion while my skin is still a bit wet. This helps keep the moisture in and makes my skin super soft.
If you don’t usually use lotion after showering, try starting now. It’s a simple step, but your skin will thank you by staying soft and maybe even keeping wrinkles away longer.
15. Go to Sleep Earlier
Your body does a lot of important work while you’re asleep, like healing damaged cells, boosting your immune system, and recharging your heart and cardiovascular system.
Getting enough sleep can help improve your mood, make you more alert, and support better decision-making.
If you’re used to staying up late, try setting a bedtime that’s just 15 minutes earlier, and gradually make it earlier over time.
If you sleep a bit earlier, even just 15-30 minutes, your body gets to relax and fix up anything that needs fixing, like muscles and memory.
And when morning comes, you won’t feel like you’re rushing around. You can take your time, maybe stretch a bit, or just enjoy the quiet.
16. Spend 10 Minutes Reading Before Bed
Ten minutes of reading might not seem like much, but it’s enough to help you relax and it might even make you sleepy. It’s a great habit to try, especially if you find it hard to fall asleep.
Instead of scrolling through your phone, pick up a book. It doesn’t have to be anything heavy or serious – even a fun magazine or a light story can do the trick. The idea is to let your eyes and brain relax with something simple and enjoyable.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a bookshelf full of options; even an ebook on a device with a warm light setting can work. Just make sure to choose something that won’t get you too excited or worked up right before you try to sleep.
17. Spend Less Time on Social Media
I’ll tell you a little secret about one of the best decisions I made for my mental wellbeing: seriously cutting back on social media. It wasn’t an overnight change, but the journey’s been worth it.
I remember mindlessly scrolling, getting lost in an endless sea of posts, ads, and ‘perfect’ life updates from others. It wasn’t just a time sink; it was subtly affecting my mood and how I viewed my own life.
What really hit me was realizing how those hours could be spent on things that genuinely made me happy and contributed to my growth.
I started by setting specific times for checking my accounts, then gradually reduced them.
Now, I replace that time with activities that add value to my day, like learning something new, practicing a hobby, or just getting outside for a walk.
You might think you’ll miss out, but the truth is, it’s freeing. I found myself less anxious, more focused on my goals, and more present in the real world.
I began to appreciate my own life’s journey, no longer clouded by the constant barrage of online noise.
If you’re considering reducing your social media usage this new year, why not give it a go?
You might want to set specific times for when you check your apps each day, and try to stick to those times only. A helpful tip is to use an app that limits how much time you spend on social media; it’ll block the sites once you’ve reached your daily limit.
You can replace the time you would’ve spent scrolling with activities or hobbies you love. Turning off notifications can also make a big difference, as it stops the constant pings that pull you back in.
18. Spend More Time with Your Family and Friends
Spending time with people who genuinely care about you can do wonders for your happiness and mental well-being.
As you grow older, you might notice that it’s not about having a lot of friends, but rather about having meaningful connections. Quality always trumps quantity when it comes to relationships.
Make it a point to be with family and close friends who understand you, support you, and bring positivity into your life. These are the relationships that will uplift you and provide a strong support system.
By nurturing these connections, you’re likely to find more joy and contentment.
In the new year, consider making it a habit to reach out and spend quality time with your loved ones regularly. Your future self will thank you for the deepened bonds and the stronger sense of belonging.
Conclusion
Ending the year and starting a new one is a great time to think about making our lives better. We often make a resolution to change lots of things all at once. But doing too much can make us want to give up. So let’s keep it simple. When we talk about health and wellness, it’s better to start small.
You don’t need to rush and try all 18 healthy habits to start. Pick just one, two, or three that you feel you can stick with. Whatever you choose, go slow with it. Give yourself time to get used to these new habits.
