Author: Staff
Date: Jan 29 2023
Date: Jan 29 2023
This year is just getting started. It's a great time to set some doable goals to nurture your well-being. Making New Year's resolutions doesn't have to be about grand gestures. Small, consistent changes can make all the difference over time. We’ve got the perfect resolution formula – developing realistic, lasting habits to support your mental and physical health. Let’s make this year a fantastic one!
Get Enough Sleep
We know you’ve heard this before but getting a good night's sleep really is important for your physical and emotional well-being. Although life may get hectic at times, cutting down on sleep isn't the answer. In fact, poor sleep habits could be harming both your body and mind in ways you didn’t know were possible.
- Almost half of all Americans say they feel sleepy during the day.
- In the U.S., 35.2% of all adults report sleeping less than seven hours per night.
- Between 135,000 and 200,000 people in the U.S. have narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that makes people very drowsy during the day).
- 40 percent of people with sleep disorders have symptoms of mental illness
Sleep is key for your physical and mental health. When you make it a priority to get plenty of rest every night, you'll be well on your way toward a happier, healthier life.
TIP: To help you get better sleep: remove all distractions from the bedroom, purchase blackout curtains and avoid technology at least one hour before bedtime.
Journaling
As a teenager, you may have had something special – your very own diary. A safe space from the judgment of others, you could pour out your most personal thoughts and feelings. While we’re not suggesting a daily routine of “dear diary” writing, keeping a journal is an awesome way to express your thoughts and become aware of your emotions, bringing relief. When you don’t bottle things up, it’s better for your mental and physical health. Studies show that putting your feelings down on paper can be extremely therapeutic, helping you to reduce stress, manage anxiety and even cope with depression. There’s no hard and fast rule for how you should journal but a simple routine would be to:
- Try to write every day.
- Keep a paper and pen handy at all times.
- Draw or write whatever feels right to you.
Get Out There and Soak up the Sunshine
Researchers from Brigham Young University (BYU) made an exciting discovery — the more sunshine you get, the better your mental health. Unsurprisingly, they reported that during the seasons with less sunlight, people experienced greater amounts of mental distress. Soaking up the sun isn't just about getting a tan – it can help you beat the blues! Studies have suggested that sunlight triggers your brain to release serotonin; known for improving mood and concentration. Sunshine truly is an all-natural remedy! It’s free and in great supply here in Florida, the Sunshine State. As little as 15 minutes a day outside can provide wonderful benefits for your mental and physical health.
Here are five simple ways to make a habit of getting outside every day and enjoy the warmth of the sun:
- Drink coffee outside
- Go for a walk around your neighborhood
- Read a book outdoors
- Have lunch at an outdoor café
- Take pictures of nature
This year, make changes in your life to boost your mental health a priority. Your mental well-being is just as important as physical health and deserves attention throughout the year. Make 2023 a healthy, happy year -mind and body. Let's get started!
