It is that time of year again. What began as a Babylonian debt-clearing tradition to assure favor with the gods for a new year crop, 4,000 years later is scale watching and money saving promises to no avail. Three months into 2022, self-discipline wanes, the few pounds lost becomes five gained. The money saved is spent, and the inevitable guilt forsakes any future retribution. The new year’s resolution is no more.
Not this year.
The New Year’s resolution 2.0 version inspires with fresh and fun ideas rather than the same old thing. Why not create a fun challenge to genuinely look forward to doing, rather than losing interest and motivation to meet unrealistic goals? The key to making a New Year’s resolution that lasts more than a month or two, and feels like a positive experience rather than a chore, is to keep it fun, simple and attainable.
As it stands, the most popular resolution at 50% is to exercise more, according to Statista, a worldwide research and analysis group for market and consumer data. Losing weight and improving diet are also two high priorities among resolutioners. So, what are some ways to improve health in the new year that are more enjoyable and realistic than trying to take on an intense regimen at the gym or going on a restrictive diet? The 2.0 version of wellness is the perfect place to begin.
Hitting two birds with one stone, try planting a garden full of healthy foods. Preparing the garden to grow vegetables and herbs includes manual mowing, carrying mulch, digging, hoeing and light shoveling. Not only will there now be many yummy and healthy new ingredients in the kitchen to cook with, but more flexibility and endurance from working in the garden is an unexpected bonus.
Studies connect spending time in nature to cognitive development attentional focus, making the newfound workout even greener. With many beautiful trails in the area to choose from, making it a priority to go for a walk or run in these natural landscapes with a close friend on a regular basis will bring many more benefits than one.
Another fun annual resolve is to commit to trying a new fruit or veggie each week. Who knows, that pomegranate or bok choi may be the new black. Trying exotic fruits or interesting new flavors can make eating healthier so much more exciting, even for those self-confessed junk food junkies.
Getting a good workout is now literally all in a day’s work. With the trend of working remotely comes more opportunity to fit that workout in at home. Take a few 10-minute breaks during the day to get out in the backyard and in the sunshine, lifting weights to build muscle and strength. A treadmill desk makes it possible to do cardio and keep the body moving while at work. After work, especially for those who are confined at home during the day, joining a co-ed sports team or taking up a Salsa class is a fun way to socialize and stay active at the same time.
It is never too late to try a new hobby or sport. The new year is a prime time to finally take that leap of faith and try something for the first time. Step into a dance studio, sign up for an art or music class, climb up onto the back of a horse or learn a new skill.
The new year is also a great time to schedule appointments for the rest of the year, in order to keep physical and mental health on the front burner all year long. Making mental health a priority can look different for every individual. Set aside time to engage in an art or music class, meditate, talk it out with a therapist or escape into the outdoors or into a good book more often.
Going into 2022, instead of committing to doing something or not doing something for a whole year, take new resolutions in stride. There are so many ways to approach the new year. Communicate more with family by making an old school phone call. No emoji can express a true belly laugh. Travel more, even if it is just one county over. Chances are, there are so many new sights to see so close to home. Take that cooking class or try out that intimidating new sport or hobby. Remember, New Year’s Resolution 2.0 is what you make of it — so think it out, get moving and have fun. Cheers to 2022.
By Angela Underwood