Experts recommend a more holistic approach to living a healthy lifestyle

The New Year is here and with it come the promises of being better. But what does that mean? Studies have repeatedly shown that fad diets and exercise crazes are not the way to go.  Instead, experts recommend a more holistic approach to living a healthy lifestyle.  Want to get started?  Try these tips:

1. Focus on Healthy Weight Management – Many factors can affect your weight, including genetics, age, gender, lifestyle, family habits, culture, sleep, and even where you live and work. Being active and choosing healthy foods can help you maintain or achieve a healthy weight, feel more energetic, and decrease your chances of having other health problems. Try to follow a healthy eating pattern rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins.
   
2. Practice an Attitude of Gratitude – Having an attitude of gratitude is important. Gratitude shifts our mindset. Make the conscious habit of expressing appreciation on a regular basis for big and small things alike. Being grateful improves our self-confidence, our self-esteem, and enhances our enjoyment of the present moment. We can be grateful for every aspect of our life, including the parts that are going well and those that are not. Expand the positives, rather than dwelling on the negatives. 
   
3. Emphasize Movement – If you feel frustrated when you hear “get your daily exercise,” it’s time to understand it’s all about movement and there’s very little that needs to be involved. From your brain to your joints, moving every day has the power to improve every part of your body. And it’s not just about high-impact, sweat-inducing exercise. Walk laps around the house when you’re on a call, take a walk with a friend, practice 15 minutes of yoga, do some gardening or simply go up and down the stairs a few times. Small movements can have a significant impact on both your physical and mental health. 
   
4. Prioritize Sleep – Prioritizing sleep is one of the best things you can do to set yourself up for a successful, energized day. Sleep deprivation can perpetuate serious health conditions, as well as negatively affect your mood, motivation, and energy levels. Try simple sleep strategies to improve your sleep, like creating a relaxing and restful environment, minimizing light and noise, establishing a bedtime routine, managing stress, and turning off electronic devices.