Tips for making resolutions realistic

Mindful that residents make resolutions each New Year’s that are routinely hard to achieve, the Chester County Health Department recommends the following eight goals — attainable with the right approach.

  1. LOSE WEIGHT

The fact that this is one of the most popular resolutions suggests just how difficult it is to stay committed, but you can succeed if you don’t expect overnight success. Plan for bumps in the road and how to overcome them. Use a food journal to keep track of what you eat and have a support system in place. Most people abandon their regimen during weeks four to six. Having a support system can help get you through those rough times.

  1. STAY IN TOUCH

Feel like family and friends have fallen by the wayside? It’s good for your health to reconnect with them. Research suggests people with strong social ties live longer than those who don’t. In a technology- fixated era, it’s never been easier to stay in touch or to rejuvenate an old relationship with friends and family, so fire up your device of choice and make connections. Be sure to follow up with in-person visits.

  1. SAVE MONEY

Saving money can be healthful. Walk or ride your bike to work, or explore carpooling. Cut back on gym membership fees by exercising at home; many fitness programs are available on cable channels or on videogame systems, or pull the treadmill out of the basement and put it good use. Make a list before grocery shopping and stick to it; aimless shopping can lead to poor choices for your diet and wallet.

  1. QUIT SMOKING

Afraid to quit only to fail again? Talk to any ex-smoker, and you will learn that multiple attempts are often part of the path to success. Try different methods to find out what works. When the going gets tough, think about how much money you will save if you quit.

  1. GET MORE SLEEP

You already know that a good night’s rest can do wonders for your mood and appearance, but sleep is more beneficial to your health than you might realize. Lack of sleep has been linked to a greater risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. So take a nap — and don’t feel guilty about it.

  1. VOLUNTEER

We tend to think our own bliss relies on bettering ourselves, but our happiness also increases when we help others. An added benefit: Happiness is good for your health. A 2010 study found that people with positive emotions were about 20 percent less likely than their gloomier peers to have a heart attack or develop heart disease. Volunteer at a local food bank or shelter; there are so many ways to give back; find the one that works for you.

  1. FLOSS YOUR TEETH

Bacteria in the mouth can lead to serious problems if you neglect oral health. One simple thing you can do to head off bacteria is floss your teeth.

  1. DECREASE YOUR STRESS LEVEL

A little pressure now and again won’t kill you; in fact, short bouts of stress can give you an energy boost. But if stress is chronic, it can cause insomnia, depression, obesity, heart disease, and more. Long work hours, little sleep, no exercise, poor diet, and not spending time with family and friends can contribute to stress. Make it a point to relax in 2015. Get plenty of sleep, take time to exercise, socialize with friends and take vacations.

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