Happy New Year!  The beginning of a new year is always a wonderful time to begin new things.  This year, start the year off right by incorporating some of these healthy habits.

1. Eat healthier.  Make sure you eat balanced meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
2. Stay on a budget.  This year, plan out your spending for each month and try to stick with it.  Credit card debt or compulsive shopping can get you in trouble in a hurry.  Try saving your pennies for the future.
3. Clean up the clutter.  It’s never too early to start spring cleaning.  The County-wide Garage Sale is coming up in April, so start sorting things to keep, donate, or sell.
4. Exercise.  The benefits to getting in some exercise are innumerable.  Exercise can reduce stress, burn calories, help you sleep better, and the list goes on.
5. Start a new hobby.  Hobbies are a fun way to fill your time, and they don’t have to be expensive.
6. Turn off the smartphone.  This year, make a promise to yourself to be more present in the moment.  Enjoy the people you’re with instead of staring into your phone screen.
7. Pick a specific weight loss goal and stick to it.  Rather than vowing to lose 20 pounds by summer, make a promise to exercise three times per week or to cut desserts.  A specific goal is easier to stick to and to measure your progress.
8. Be kind.  Take time in your interactions to extend kindness throughout the day.  A little kindness goes a long way, and it will help you to be more positive as well.
9. Drink water.  We need to drink 6-8 cups of water each day to replace what we lose to normal body functions.  Water does so much for our health, so drink up!
10. Donate to charity.  Find a charity that is doing something you are passionate about and send support.  It doesn’t have to be a lot, but it’s a good thing to do.  We have many local charities that can use your support.
11. Watch less television.  Use extra time to read more books or spend more time with your family.  You’ll be amazed at what you can do when you turn off the tv for a while.
12. Get more sleep.  Adequate sleep is essential for our health.  Sleep boosts memory, improves performance at work and school, lowers stress, improves attention, and many other things.
13. Play games.  Find some fun and unique things to do with your kids, or create your own board games.  This is a great way to make memories with your kiddos.
14. Get more fresh air.  Spend time outside with your friends and family.  Our local Meridian State Park has some great new activities if you need something fun to do.
15. Pick a community service project.  Visit residents at the nursing home, volunteer with Meals on Wheels, or help with a youth organization.
16. Focus on your family.  Spend time creating memories and sharing quality time with your loved ones.
17. Have fun!  Make this year a great one by spending time with family and friends.

We hope you have a very Happy New Year!  We are looking to a wonderful year in 2017.