We are just weeks into a new year, but January 1 already seems like a vague memory. Chances are, you set goals for 2014, but you’re already struggling to carry them out. New Year’s resolutions related to your physical and emotional health are very popular year after year, but they can also be the hardest resolutions to keep.
Read on to learn about the top three health resolutions for 2014, as well as tips to help you be successful.
#1: Get more sleep.
Due to the long-term implications of sleep on your overall health, this is an important resolution for many of us. No one can argue that sleep is an indispensable ingredient for a healthy life, but getting enough of it can be easier said than done. Whether you have trouble getting to sleep to begin with or have a tendency to wake up in the middle of the night, we have some tips for you:
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Resist the urge to eat late at night. Consuming calories, especially sugar, can contribute to restlessness.
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Reduce your caffeine intake. Set a time of day when you will cut off your caffeine consumption and experiment to see what works for you. A good rule of thumb is to avoid coffee and tea after 2:00 PM.
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Make sleep a priority. Say no to social engagements and other obligations that would cause you to stay up past your ideal bedtime.
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Experiment with vitamins and supplements that support sleep. Melatonin, valerian and chamomile are great options available over-the-counter.
#2: Be happy.
As we all face the usual stress factors that are a part of everyday adult life, many of us struggle to simply be happy. To some, the decision to choose happiness and take proactive steps in that direction may come naturally. To others, especially those facing unexpected bumps in the road that is life, being happy may feel impossible this year.
Either way, many people resolve to make 2014 their happiest year yet. And there are actions you can take toward increasing your happiness this year:
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Engage in meaningful activities. Take up gardening or volunteer with a community service organization.
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Foster friendships. Studies show that both introverts and extroverts experience a boost in happiness when they spend time with others.
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Focus on forgiveness. Holding grudges can affect mental and physical health negatively.
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Consider a mood-boosting supplement. Fish oil, St. John’s Wort and GABA can be used to relieve anxiety and depression.
#3: Stop smoking.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your risk of heart attack begins to decrease within just 24 hours of quitting. That’s just one of the many reasons why giving up your smoking habit may be the best resolution to keep. It’s not easy to do, but a good quitting plan can help you get past symptoms of withdrawal. Here are a few suggestions:
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Talk to your friends and family. They can provide moral support, accountability and smoke-free activities to keep you busy.
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Talk with your pharmacist about quit options. Nicotine patches, gum or other medications can help with cravings.
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Anticipate and plan for challenges. Drink water, take a walk or call a friend when you’re experiencing cravings.
Whether your resolution was to lose weight, quit smoking or increase your health in general, your community pharmacist is here to provide advice and product recommendations. Visit [company_short] to speak with a pharmacy staff member today. We look forward to seeing you soon.