Start the New Year off Right: The Benefits of Forming Healthy Habits

/ Personal Health Article / By

Dear Community Members,

As we begin a new year, it’s a great time to think about ways to improve our health and well-being. One powerful way to do this is by forming new habits. Habits are actions that we repeat regularly and eventually become automatic, and they have the power to shape our lives for better or for worse, no matter our age. By developing healthy habits, we can improve our physical and mental health and increase our chances of living a long and fulfilling life.

Oftentimes people will set goals at the beginning of January, but it can be easy to lose momentum, so February is a great time to reassess and revisit those goals, or set new goals if you haven’t yet.

Here are a few tips for forming healthy habits:

    1. Start small. It’s easier to start with something that feels manageable, and then build on it over time. For example, start by drinking a glass of water when you wake up, and then gradually work your way up to drinking more water throughout the day.

    1. Be consistent. Habits take time to form, so it’s important to stick with them, even when it’s hard. Try to do the habit at the same time every day, and make it a part of your daily routine.

    1. Make it fun. Find ways to make the habit enjoyable, so that you’ll be more likely to stick with it. For example, if you’re trying to exercise more, try finding an activity you enjoy, such as dancing or swimming.

    1. Track your progress. Keeping a log or calendar can help you see how far you’ve come and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

    1. Reward yourself. Celebrate small victories as you form new habits.

 

Some examples of simple, healthy habits you can form include:

    • Drinking more water

    • Eating more fruits and vegetables

    • Walking or doing other physical activities

    • Practicing mindfulness or meditation

    • Getting enough sleep

    • Taking your medications as prescribed

    • Regularly taking Blood Pressure readings and tracking them over time

 

Remember, forming new habits takes time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. Virtare Health’s Enhanced Clinical Management program helps you to meet health related goals, and keep your care circle informed so that you recieve better support and better health care.

Let’s make this year our best yet by forming healthy habits.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year.

Best,

The Virtare Health Team