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New Year, New Resolutions: 5 ways to live a healthier 2013

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at McGill chapter.

 

            Writing New Year’s resolutions is always a daunting task — a reminder of the ideal person that you strive to be. The problem is, however, that each year we can come up with a set of unrealistic resolutions that will be quickly abandoned by mid-January. This year, I decided that I wanted to better take care of myself; to aim for an all around healthier 2013. My mother always says that “without your health you have nothing,” and I have come to realize that she is right (again). Here are five easy ways to keep New Year’s resolutions for a healthier and better year. Cheers to 2013 — and may it be the best year yet!

1. Stay active:

Going to the gym can be a very intimidating activity. That doesn’t mean, however, that you shouldn’t look for ways to stay active — especially if you can find activities that fit within your lifestyle. Walking is a great way to boost your energy and fit some exercise into your busy day-to-day schedule. Organize a walking afternoon with you friends; it is the perfect way to catch up on gossip while working those leg muscles! Yoga and Pilates are other great exercises that work your core and your entire body. Check out SSMU mini courses this semester for a great selection of classes offered to McGill students.

 http://ssmu.mcgill.ca/minicourses/courses/

2. Eat well:

Instead of trying to eat all-organic and drastically changing your diet, try to incorporate key healthy ingredients into your daily cooking routine. Supplement red meat with tofu, add a few veggies and fry all these foods in a wok for a delicious and health conscious stir-fry dinner! Quinoa is also a healthy grain that you can use instead of rice. Add cumin and other fresh spices for a nice flavor. For more delicious quinoa recipes check out MarthaStewart.com and you will be cooking up a storm in no time.

http://www.marthastewart.com/921782/quinoa-recipes#870081

Also remember to stay hydrated and drink a lot of water in 2013!

3. Take care of you teeth:

Dental hygiene says a lot about a person, and flossing is an important part of taking care of your pearly whites. Your dentist is always running after you to floss — and for good reason! Flossing helps prevent plaque build up, which could lead to gingivitis later on… which is not very attractive. It also keeps your breath fresh, eliminates excess foods stuck between your teeth, and will help you have a confident smile.

4. Use SPF everyday:

Taking care of your skin and protecting it from the harmful UVA/UVB rays of the sun is essential. Moreover, doing so is important all year round, even during those cold winter months. This year make sure to add SPF to your daily beauty routine or to buy a moisturizer with SPF already included. Your skin will thank you later on.

5. Get enough sleep:

Getting enough sleep on a regular basis can prove to be a challenge for students. From the late nights partying, to early classes and all nighters studying, your body just doesn’t know what time it is. A good night’s sleep will not only leave you feeling rested and energized, but you will also be in a better mood and less irritable. This year listen to your body, try your best to have a regular sleep cycle, and if all else fails — take a nap!

 

 

Sources:

http://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/10-beauty-resolutions-made-simple-613190#slide-1

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20452233_10,00.html

 

Image source:

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