Many of us make resolutions as the clock strikes midnight and the New Year begins. And, if you are like so many others, one of those resolutions might be to “get healthy this year!” But before you set this specific intention for the new year, let us discuss what “getting healthy” actually means.
Health is the absence of dis-ease (see what I did there?). But just because you haven’t been diagnosed with a specific disease does not necessarily mean that you have true vitality or are feeling your absolute best physically and mentally.
The truth is, while a “healthy” (I put it in quotes because what is healthy for one person may not be for another) diet is always ideal for fueling our bodies most efficiently, food is just one component of vitality. For example, no matter how perfect your diet is, even if you work out every day, don’t smoke, and drink plenty of water, if stress is a major factor in your life and your nervous system is always sympathetic (aka fight-or-flight) mode, your body will face repercussions.
So instead of making a blanket resolution to “get healthy” this year, how about incorporating some lifestyle elements that will help you feel your best?
1. Eat the Rainbow
Plants get their wide range of colors from natural compounds called phytochemicals, which provide a plethora of health benefits for humans – antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, protect our bones and eye health, strengthen our immune system, promote proper digestion, and the list goes on!
2. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is necessary for good digestion, waste removal, hormones and neurotransmitters, cell growth and maintenance, regulating body temperature, oxygen delivery, and lubrication of mucosal membranes and joints. While drinking plain water can be a key component of hydration, you can also drink smoothies or broths, eat soup, and up your intake of high-water content foods such as cucumbers, celery, radishes, tomatoes, etc. Aim to urinate a minimum of 6-8 times per day.
3. Purposeful Movement
Sometimes it’s hard to get to the gym, especially with kids. However, every little bit of movement counts towards being physically active. Park in the furthest spot in the parking lot. Take the stairs. Get up and walk around the office once an hour. Walk to the bus stop. Have an impromptu dance party. Play tag. If you can find time to work out, that’s great, but don’t stress if you cannot. Just add in little bursts throughout the day. They will add up.
4. Detoxify
Our bodies are amazing vessels, constantly working to eliminate external and internal toxins. How can you help? Eat liver-supportive foods such as broccoli, onions, garlic, and citrus daily. Choose whole foods over processed, organic when possible. Eat more fiber. Consider dandelion root, milk thistle, green tea, and increasing your intake of vitamin C. Make sure your gut health is optimal. Sweat more. And stay hydrated!
5. Better Self-Care
As moms, we often put ourselves last. And we often think of self-care as a pedicure, a massage, or a glass of wine. And while it can be all those things, it is much more. Getting enough sleep, eating enough nutrient-dense foods (not just your kids’ leftovers), setting boundaries, self-compassion, being in nature, and quality time with family and friends all count here. So does a resolution to not make any resolutions!
Let this coming year be where you experience true vitality and health in all areas: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. But no pressure.
Lindsey M. is a former domestic goddess and mom of three (ages 9, 8, and 6) who lives on the Housatonic River in Shelton. While homeschooling her children during the pandemic, Lindsey was in school herself, working on her master’s degree in Nutrition from UB. Once her daughter started kindergarten, she started her business, BBX Nutrition: Body-Brain eXchange. She offers Mental Health Nutrition counseling and children’s nutrition classes. Lindsey is fascinated by the miracle of the human body and loves adventuring, traveling, waterskiing, hiking, reading, and hanging out with her kids. Her motto is “Parenting is fun most days.”
