Happy New Year! As we enter into a new year, I always take this as an opportunity to reflect on the previous year and plan for the upcoming year. Personally, I find that writing things down is a therapy in itself, so I tend to take some time to journal and write things out (the old pen and paper method). Important thing here is to reflect on all the positive things that happened for you in 2023. The things and people you are grateful for. This year, one of the things I did was go through my camera roll and looked back on all the fun memories I had the previous year. It was a good starting point for thinking of what I wanted to create in 2024.
As you start to think about your Resolutions for the upcoming year (no it is not too late), consider adopting some holistic approaches to your health and well-being that go beyond quick fixes and embrace lasting lifelong changes.
Fuel your body with Nutrient-Rich Choices
Dieting and diet trends don't work. Think of adding nutrient-dense whole foods to every meal. Include a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, focus on lean proteins and healthy fats. Don't strive to be perfect, but rather balanced and think of nourishing your body with the building blocks it needs to function optimally.
Prioritize your Mental Health
Your mind controls every facet of your existence. It is important to do things that are caring for your mind. Prioritize things like stress management, practicing mindfulness and gratitude, and carve out time to do things you enjoy often.
Move your Body Regularly
Movement in health and living. It's the key component to holistic health and wellbeing. Find something you love to do that involves movement and stay consistent with it - yoga, dancing, sport, walking, cycling etc. Move everyday as much as possible. Include chiropractic care into your regime to help keep your spine and joints healthy and movement. Don't always wait for problems to get bad before addressing them.
Quality Sleep Matters
I can not stress enough the importance of quality sleep. This would be a great thing to have as a top priority for 2024. Sleep is essential for all physical and mental recovery and processes. Create a calming bedtime routine, go to bed early during the week, and create an optimal sleep environment for yourself.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Water is a fundamental component of overall good health. You don't need a $100 water bottle for this but if that is going to help you stay hydrated all year - invest! Hydration is important for digestion, nutrient absorption and overall function of EVERY cell in your body. Water should be your primary beverage that you drink most often. It is the easiest way to improve your skin, organ function and overall vitality.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is the most important factor in any determinant of health. If you consistently eat poorly, drink too much alcohol and sit on the couch, your health and body will reflect this. On the other hand, if you consistently follow and add the things discussed in this article, you can achieve unlimited health and wellness.
In the realm of health and wellbeing, every single action you do and think will impact your body in one way or another. As you embark on your journey through 2024, approach your health holistically bu nourishing your body, prioritizing your mental well-being, staying moving and active, ensuring quality sleep, hydrating and staying consistent. Health isn't about being perfect - its about trying and adding things that are positive to outweigh the negatives. Unleash your potential by embracing a lifestyle that fosters health and happiness throughout the year and for the long term. Cheers to happy, healthy, vibrant 2024!
Dr. Alfredo is a health enthusiast who’s goal is to help people and families live healthier, happier lives. My philosophy on health is simple - our body’s have the amazing ability and potential to self-adapt, self-regulate and THRIVE in this world.