Happy New Year! Healthy Resolutions for 2018

2018 is right around the corner, and we are excited for all of the wonderful possibilities that the new year will bring. When gearing up for a new year, it's always a great idea to come up with a plan of ways to improve your life for the better.

The best way to reach your goals is to design a realistic and measurable mission, stay determined, and have your friends and family hold you accountable. The first step is coming up with what to improve, and we've got you covered with some of our favorite healthy ideas!

Healthy New Years Resolution Ideas

Reduce your sodium intake to no more than 1,500 mg / day.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium consumption to 1,500 milligrams per day, and only ingesting 2,300 maximum. Try cooking with herbs instead, and stick to that lower limit each day.

Cut back on smartphone use.
Your phone is not an extension of your arm, it is a tool and should be used accordingly. Work on cutting back time spent on your phone and invest more time in building stronger connections with other people.

Do something positive for yourself every day.
Whether it's getting a massage, writing a positive affirmation in your journal, or just saying "you look fabulous today!" to yourself in the mirror, every little step you take towards loving yourself will do wonders in overall happiness.

Do one thing every week towards finding a new career path.
Use these tips to create a plan towards finding a fulfilling job that you truly enjoy.

Drink 2.7 liters (about 11-12 cups) of water every day.
Drinking plenty of water will help you lose weight, improve your overall health, and quality of life. Download a hydration tracker app to help visualize your progress.

Wean yourself down to just 1 cup of coffee per day.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a cup of Joe every day, but moderation is important. If you've been reaching the 4-cups-per-day mark lately, try weaning yourself off the habit with some healthy substitutions.

Make an effort to become more green each month this year.
Try something like this: January, drive less (walk, bike, or take public transportation more often). February, use less water (hand wash dishes and shut off the water between, collect rainwater for indoor plants). March, start composting food scraps. And so on!

Incorporate more turmeric into your diet.
Turmeric has some wonderful health benefits, and it is also a great way to spice up your weeknight meals! Here are some healthy turmeric recipes to try at home.

Go a year without buying any new clothing.
Get creative with the wardrobe you have, and track how much money you're saving. You may be surprised that you already have everything you need! Still itching for a shopping experience? Host a clothing exchange with friends at your house. 

Eat more vegetarian meals (at least 1 meal per day).
Not only will choosing to eat vegetarian every now and then improve your health, but it will help reduce meal costs as well. Try experimenting with some unusual foods like jackfruit, or cook a new vegetarian recipe every week at home.

Start using sunscreen every day.
Make a rule that before you leave the house each day, you must apply sunscreen.

Start doing yoga once a week.
On top of your regular exercise routine, start adding a yoga session just one time per week. It is an excellent way to reduce stress and increase flexibility.

Take a year off from drinking alcohol.
This may sound extreme, but it is completely possible. If you've tried cutting back in the past without success you may find it easier to have the firm "no alcohol" rule rather than less. You may be surprised what you learn during the year! Be sure to consult your doctor, nutritionist, or healthcare professional before starting any severe diet changes.

Best of luck in accomplishing your new years resolutions in 2018!