Building a Foundation for Healthy Habits in 2024

We all have good habits and bad ones when it comes to our health. Some people can’t say no to chocolate but manage to run 10k three times a week. Another might not exercise at all but eat a healthy diet. Follow our staff’s advice to find your happy compromises.  

Time Outside

This year, prioritize time outside. Outdoor time provides numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. This healthy habit can even ward off the dreaded Seasonal EffectiveDisorder on overcast days. Keep it simple and manageable like a morning walk or sipping coffee on the porch. If you enjoy reading, bring a book to a park bench or your backyard. This way, you can still enjoy the outdoors while engaging in your favorite indoor activity. Just remember to dress accordingly.  

Skincare Routine

We get it, you’re busy, but maintaining a skincare routine is essential for sustaining the health and appearance of your skin. Keep your routine easy and feasible. A basic routine typically includes cleansing, toning, moisturizing with added sun protection. Consistency is crucial for skincare effectiveness. Stick to this new healthy habit for at least a few weeks to allow products to show results.  

If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, consider consulting a skincare professional. Connected Health’s skincare expert, Kaya Merzlak, CRNP, offers complimentary skin consultations to help you establish a skincare regimen for maximum results.  

Drink More Water

Staying hydrated is necessary for your overall health. Here are some tips to help you drink more water throughout the day:

·     Set a Schedule. Establish specific times during the day when you’ll have a glass of water. This can include drinking a glass right after waking up, before meals, and before going to bed.Having a schedule helps create lasting healthy habits.

·     Use a Water Bottle. Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Having a bottle within easy reach serves as visual reminder to drink water and you can easily sip on it throughout the day.

·     Flavor Your Water. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, try infusing it with natural flavors. Add slices of lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to enhance taste. This can make drinking water more enjoyable.

Ditch Unhealthy Habits

Making new healthy habits can be just as important—and difficult—as dropping bed habits. As we get older, the things our younger metabolisms processed easily, aren’t so easy. Lucky for you, our tips are slightly easier than dropping a cookie habit.

Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time, especially on devices like smartphones, computers, tablets, and TVs, can have several negative effects on physical and mental health, such as eye strain, sleep disruptions, and decreased attention span. To mitigate these negative effects, it’s essential to practice moderation:

·     Set screen time limits. Use the screen time management features available on your devices such as do not disturb. This can help you monitor and control your screen time.

·     Establish tech-free zones. For example, make the bedroom a tech-free zone to promote better sleep.

·     Take regular breaks. Following the20-20-20 rule can help prevent eye fatigue. Every 20 minutes, look at something20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Use breaks to stretch, move around, and give your eyes a rest from the screen.

Fad Diets

Fad diets are characterized by their popularity for a short period, promising quick weight loss or other health benefits. However, they often lack scientific evidence, may be nutritionally imbalanced, and can pose dangers to your health. Many fad diets restrict certain food groups, leading to inadequate nutrient intake. Rita de Freitas, Registered Dietician at ConnectedHealth, stresses the importance of eating whole or minimally processed foods. Examples of whole foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. A diet rich in whole foods is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, including certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions.

Saying “Yes” to Everything

This year, we want to encourage you to say no more often. Saying no allows you to protect your time and prioritize activities that align with your goals, values, and well-being. It helps prevent overcommitting and feeling overwhelmed. This is an essential aspect of self-care and maintaining a healthy balance in various aspects of life. Overcommitting and taking on too many responsibilities can lead to stress and anxiety. Remember that saying no is not inherently negative. Rather, setting boundaries is a powerful tool for personal growth and maintaining a balanced life.

Your Care Team is Your Biggest Cheerleader for Healthy Habits

Small, sustainable changes can have a profound impact over time, but there are few more excited about your healthy habits than the primary care team at Connected Health.

When you join the Connected Health family as a concierge primary care client, you get access to your care team 24/7. They can support you in building a foundation of healthy habits and letting go of detrimental practices.  We care when you start a new diet or get enough fresh air. We even give you a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. You can pave the way for a year of improved well-being, vitality, and fulfillment, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready for a more comprehensive approach to primary care, schedule a free consultation HERE or call our office at 724-933-4305 today.

Here’s to your best year, yet!