The start of the New Year is the perfect time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. It can also turn into a very hectic time, with children going back to school, winter sports starting and work piling up after a few weeks of relaxation. January has already flown by and I am just now creating a path for what I want to accomplish professionally and personally this year. Realizing what your goals are is only half of the battle. In order to achieve your goals, you also need to create habits.
Here are some simple changes that could turn into life-long habits. Good luck on your adventure!
Healthy homemade meals and snacks
Making meals for your family can feel like a huge chore, but eating out or grabbing fast food regularly is expensive and often leads to unhealthy choices. Start 2017 off right by preparing simple and delicious meals ahead of time.
We all have busy schedules that take away from prep time. Make an effort to cut back on fast food by cutting up fruits, vegetables and salad ahead of time or on the weekend. Or plan a couple of healthy slow cooker meals that cook during the day while you are out. Getting your family involved can also make prepping food more fun and helps your children understand the importance of making healthy decisions.
Unplug and recharge
Getting a good night sleep can be difficult. There are always new emails to be answered and a list of chores to do; however, it is important to understand the need for a good night’s sleep. Sleep can boost productivity, improve your memory and help maintain a healthy weight[1].
This year, turn off the television, computers and smart-phones one hour before bed time. If you feel the need to check your phone, leave it in a different room. Read a book or write in a journal during that hour before bed. This will help to clear and calm your mind.
Drink water
After a month of indulging start the year off right by challenging your family to drink more water. If you create the habit to start and end your day with one full glass of water, you are about half way through your minimum daily requirement. This may be difficult for the first few days, but after a week you will feel rejuvenated and have healthier hair and skin.
Make time for friends and family
Along with our physical well being, our emotional well being is extremely important. Focus on nurturing relationships that matter to you. Go for coffee, put time aside for a phone conversation with a long distance friend or have some close friends over for wine and a chat. Our world is becoming increasingly disconnected as many turn their attentions to online relationships. As human beings, it is important to keep grounded in personal relationships.
Keep your hair healthy
Washing your hair too frequently can strip out natural oils and cause split ends[2]. This new year, start washing your hair every second or third day to maintain healthy and natural looking locks. Using Batiste™ Dry Shampoo Original between washes will help to eliminate excess oil and grease, leaving hair looking clean and fresh with added body and texture. No water required!
Starting a new habit can be daunting! What healthy habits do you want to start this year?
Footnotes
1. Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep
2. Reasons Why You Should Stop Washing Your Hair every day
Sheri publishes, and writes at This Bird’s Day where she shares all of the thoughts in her head without the voices. Sticking mainly with content for Canadians, Sheri shares family stories, product information and anything that fits into her (and her family’s) daily activities.
