The 7 Healthy Habits to Build in the New Year to Live Your Best Life

2022 is coming to an end and now the next year is on its way, full of opportunities and the feeling of a fresh start. There’s no better time than January to kickstart some healthy habits that will have you feeling like the best version of yourself in the new year.

However, only getting started in January is counterproductive. It’s also a good idea to spend the last few weeks of the year reflecting on the 12 months that passed, what went well, what could have gone better, and what you’d like to change in 2023. 

If you’re looking to overhaul your life and habits, here are a few to add to your list. 

Drinking More Water

This is an obvious cliché, but very few people drink enough water to fuel and hydrate themselves properly. Building a hydration habit should be at the top of your list for 2023. However, we know it’s not easy. 

You can make it easier for yourself by installing something like a countertop water filtration system that will provide you with clean, crisp water right from your tap – no more buying bottled water from the store. Your water habit can also be made easier by investing in a large water bottle and even filling it with fruit and veg like lemons, cucumbers, mint leaves or watermelon. 

Incorporating More Movement

We all know that exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but not all of us have the time to incorporate it into our daily lives. However, making time for some kind of movement every day will be beneficial for both your physical and mental health. 

If you hate the gym, that’s okay too because there are plenty of other ways to move. Try out a daily walk or stretch. These only need to take up 10-15 minutes of your day and your body will thank you for it. 

Increasing Your Fibre Intake

When it comes to eating habits, we often generalize our goals and try to “eat healthily”, but that can feel overcomplicated and confusing. Should you follow a specific diet, cut calories or do a juice cleanse? Instead of these drastic measures, try the simple habit of eating more fiber. 

This is easier to do and will have major health benefits – simply focus on adding more high-fibre foods to your meals. Increasing your fiber will help aid your digestion and improve your energy, plus, you’ll naturally be eating more veggies.  

Eating More Protein

Another good target to focus on is increasing how much protein you eat each day. Protein is the most satiating micronutrient which means it helps you stay fuller for longer and is also important for your muscle and bone health and your overall longevity. 

Including protein powder as a supplement in your diet can be beneficial but isn’t necessary if you’re getting enough protein from whole foods. Focus on lean meats, nuts, eggs, tofu, lentils, beans, and low-fat dairy to help you eat more protein. 

Prioritizing Sleep

Focusing more on your sleeping habits will provide you with endless benefits across every factor of your life. You’ll have more energy, perform better at work and school, do better in your workout routine, lose weight more easily, feel less stressed… The list goes on and on.

If you struggle with sleep, try to implement a bedtime routine to help you wind down at night. Put your phone away at least an hour before bed, dim the lights in your home, and drink something warm before you hit the hay. 

Breaking Away from Your Screen

These days, we can’t seem to go anywhere without our smartphones glued to our hands – not even the bathroom!

Even though this has become the new ‘normal’, that doesn’t mean it’s good for our physical and mental health. Too much screen time can strain your eyes and wreak havoc on your mental state, and it’s important to take some time away from your devices. Try to limit your social media use, set yourself specific times when it’s okay to use it, or even plan a device-free day once or twice a month. 

Making Time for Others

With the self-care movement on the rise, people are often told how important it is to make time for themselves. And this is true!

However, it’s also crucial to make time for others. Connection is an important facet of our well-being, and being there for our friends and family, giving generously of our time and efforts will not only make them feel loved, but it’ll make you feel good too. 

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