Giving up on your New Year’s resolutions before February? You’re not alone. Studies suggest that about 80% of resolutions fail by the second week of February, and only 25% of people remain committed to their goals six months later. 

However, small changes can make a big difference to your overall well-being. Even modest lifestyle modifications can yield significant health benefits. The key to keeping resolutions is setting realistic and achievable goals. 

At WeCare Pharmacy, we believe in empowering individuals to take control of their health. Here are six simple yet impactful resolutions to help you start a healthier lifestyle in the new year.

1. Increase Your Water Intake

Hydrating properly is a resolution that everyone can get behind. Water intake benefits physical health as well as emotional and mental well-being. Just as water revives a drooping plant, it can invigorate you, too!

If you find it challenging to consume enough water daily, consider these strategies to make hydration more manageable and enjoyable:

• Kickstart your day by drinking a full glass of water before stepping out of bed.
• Keep a reusable water bottle with a straw within reach throughout your day, whether at work, commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home.
• To add a twist, infuse your water with refreshing flavors like lemon, ginger, cucumber, and mint.
• Turn hydration into a fun challenge by using a water intake tracker to monitor your daily water consumption, aligning with CDC recommendations for both men and women.

2. Set Up Your Morning and Evening Schedule

Each day can vary immensely, especially for entrepreneurs or those working from home. You might begin some days leisurely scrolling through TikTok in bed for 30 minutes and end them lounging on the couch. On other days, you might rise at 6 a.m. for a workout and retire with a good book by 8 p.m. Establishing morning and evening routines can bring consistency and structure to your days.

Creating a daily schedule gives you something to anticipate each day. While you don’t have to strictly adhere to it every day, having a general outline of how you begin and conclude your day can help you organize activities that contribute to your overall well-being.

3. Unplug To Recharge

Technology can be beautiful and incredibly useful.  However, higher screen time and doom scrolling can take a toll on your mental health. 

Reducing screen time can improve productivity by eliminating the easy distractions that often linger in front of our eyes and fingertips.

As with many aspects of life, moderation is key. Beyond the mental health benefits of detaching from technology and being present at the moment, there’s another compelling reason to limit screen time intentionally. The blue light that phones and computer screens emit interferes with our sleep cycle and negatively affects our health. Improve your sleep quality and overall health by setting aside your devices at least an hour before bedtime.

Consider unplugging and giving yourself a break from constant screen exposure for a healthier and more balanced year. You might be surprised by the results.

4. Get Outside Every Day

Without a doubt, sunlight can have a profound impact on our well-being. In fact, sunlight is our best source of Vitamin D and energy. 

Increasing sun exposure during the day can lead to better sleep at night. This is because sunlight helps regulate the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles. Additionally, sunshine is important in boosting serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, relaxation, and enhanced focus.

Let’s not overlook the connection between sunlight and vitamin D synthesis, vital for maintaining strong bones and a robust immune system.

Moreover, sunlight exposure has been linked to weight management and increased life expectancy. Studies have shown a correlation between morning sunlight exposure and weight loss and between overall sun exposure and longer life spans. Although further research is warranted, these findings offer compelling reasons to prioritize soaking up some rays.

So, the next time you’re enjoying a leisurely walk outdoors, take a moment to bask in the sunlight. By doing so, you’re simultaneously benefiting your sleep quality, mood, and overall health. It’s as simple as that.

5. Challenge Yourself to Move Your Body More 

You might believe that reaping the benefits of exercise requires committing to intense gym sessions, lengthy HIIT workouts, or other ambitious fitness goals. However, embracing “the fitness life” isn’t necessary to experience the positive impacts of physical activity.

Any amount of movement is beneficial for your health. Whether you have just a few minutes or an hour to spare, simply finding time to engage your body can make a significant difference. No fancy equipment or specific targets are required—just movement.

What does this entail? It can encompass various activities. Opt for parking farther away, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or dance like nobody’s watching (or, like everyone is, fulfilling childhood dreams of becoming a famous dancer). Even a leisurely walk while listening to your favorite podcast can be exercise because it keeps your body in motion.

The more you incorporate movement into your routine, the easier it becomes to do so consistently and for longer durations. Over time, you’ll naturally gravitate toward feeling incomplete without regular exercise.

6. Plan More Self-Care 

A consistent self-care routine is indispensable for prioritizing your well-being, addressing your needs, and fostering happiness. Self-care is unique to each individual, as everyone has their own methods for nurturing themselves and feeling cared for. Here are some examples of what self-care might look like:

• Sunrise yoga and a 15-minute meditation session to start the day.
• Reciting affirmations in front of the mirror to promote positive self-talk.
• Taking daily walks to grab a coffee while listening to a favorite podcast.
• Engaging in morning journaling to reflect on thoughts and emotions.
• Enjoying a glass of red wine and a face mask while taking a relaxing bath.

If you aren’t sure of your ideal self-care routine, challenge yourself to explore different activities this year and incorporate them into your schedule at least once a week.

Once you’ve identified the health resolutions you want to focus on for the year ahead, the next step is to ensure they become lasting habits.

Whether committing to drinking more water, establishing a morning routine, or prioritizing self-care, every step you take towards better health is worth celebrating. And if you’re looking for support, WeCare Pharmacy is here to help. If you have any questions about how to stay on track with your New Year’s resolutions, contact us today and make 2025 your healthiest year yet!