‘New Year, new me’, ‘This is the year I’m going to change’, ‘My New Year's resolutions are - ’. Do these sound all too familiar to you at this time of year? 

We all want to better ourselves, no matter the time of year, but there's something hopeful about a brand new year. But how many of these resolutions do we follow through with?

According to this survey, done by Finder, an estimated 23.1 million Americans — or 12.23% of all Americans who set resolutions — don’t believe that meeting them is within reach. 

We’ve come up with some healthy and achievable habits, instead of ‘resolutions’ that will help you to set yourself up for success in 2022.

Habits are more reliable than resolutions because while they take time to form, once you do create them, it's harder to let them fall to the wayside. 

Our healthy New Years Habits: 

Tips to Staying Hydrated

Drinking water is an effective way to boost your brain, enhance your physical performance and improve your general health. Some people have a well-developed thirst mechanism but for most people, it’s a discipline. Mix up your format and build the habits into your daily life.  When you’re moving and hydrating effectively you’ll be on the upward spiral to greater wellness.

Some great ways to keep hydrated are: 

• Keep a bottle of water/cup of water next to you during the day
• Set An alarm or reminder to drink water
• Decrease coffee and alcohol consumption as they can dehydrate you
• Flavour your water for a variety
• Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables

To read more about how to stay hydrated, read here.

Tips for a Healthy Sleep Pattern

A sleep-deprived body is like a car with a flat tire. The car is running but it’s moving with less capability and power. The longer it operates in that condition the more likely there will be damage to the car and potentially others around it. Sometimes sleep deprivation is unavoidable for short periods, but often a late bedtime is just a bad habit. If you can problem-solve your way to a little more sleep you’ll find yourself empowered to further improve your sleep and all your other healthy habits.

The best ways to improve your sleeping habits, as per New Zealand's Health Monitor are as follows:

• Set your body clock - Get into a daily and nightly routine to allow your body to create the habit of waking up and going to sleep at certain times.
• Wind down at bedtime - This can be done by; dimming the lights in your room at night, having a snack before bedtime or even just spending time reading to wind down your day.
• Being active in the day - Regular daytime exercise improves sleep and morning walks are a great way to start the day feeling refreshed.

Get into the habit of getting outdoors

It’s easy to get comfortable in the great indoors, but it’s not good for your health. Be on the lookout for opportunities to get outside to enjoy the sunshine, relaxation and exercise. 

Here are some easy habits to help you get outdoors:

• Schedule a walk into your workday. Whether it’s by walking to work or around your local streets at lunchtime.
• Take your kids or pets to the park. The park is a great place to stretch your legs, not just for you but for the others around you.
• Plan to do a hike or trail walk once every few weeks. With New Zealand's gorgeous own backyard at your fingertips, there are plenty of riveting places to explore.

No matter where you are, there’s always a new adventure for you waiting outside. 

To stay up to date and in control of these healthy habits, continue to follow our June365 journey here.