As we usher in the new year, many plan to make health and wellness a priority. Optimal health, defined as physical, mental and social wellbeing can be challenging for many to achieve . Here are some tips for starting a good healthy lifestyle in the new year
Get up and go: jump into exercise from the moment you get up. Whether its sit ups, jumping jacks or air squats, 10 minutes of exercise as soon as you get out of bed starts blood flow and increases energy that can last for the most part of the day.
Get realistic: Be honest with yourself and develop realistic goals for yourself. For example, some of us cannot exercise for 30 minutes at a time. Breaking this up into 10 minutes of exercise three times a day is just as effective as 30 minutes all at once. Similarly, strict diets may not work long term, so allow yourself a ‘cheat treat’. at intervals
Get hydrated: after hours of sleep , rehydration gets you going. Work hard to maintain fluid intake throughout the day. A good estimate is 1 ounce per kilogram of your weight
Get uptodate: schedule a preventive care and screening appointment and talk with your doctor about your mammograms, colonoscopy, flu vaccine , shingles and TdaP vaccine
Get creative: look for ways to incorporate exercise daily. Instead of using elevators, use the stairs. Instead of emailing a coworker, walk to their desk and instead of dinner dates, start exercise dates with your partner or friends.
Get scheduled : develop a working routine including 3-4 balanced meals , 6-8 hours of restful sleep, exercise and leisure time.
This column is sponsored by Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers.
BIO: Dr. Trishanna Sookdeo is a board certified physician who
has a Master’s in Public Health She cares for the whole family,
ages 3 days and up. Should you have any questions or wish to
schedule an appointment, call 863-419-2420 ext 2, and ask for
Dr. Sookdeo