Soon enough we will all be thinking about New Year’s Resolutions whist drinking and staying up past our typical bedtimes- what irony! Many times we fail ourselves shortly after setting these goals. What gives? I think there are many factors, but becoming motivated and forming some basic healthy habits to support your goals is key! If you decide to join a gym in January you will be among many others doing the same. Being inside a super crowded room of people grunting is not my idea of working out and would likely stop going because it’s not something I’d enjoy. Think about ways you could change your lifestyle and how you could make this transition permanent instead of that quick fix or half thought out solution. I believe that changing your lifestyle with small goals and habits that are easy to add to your current lifestyle is far more beneficial than the lofty goals we often strive for in January. Here a five healthy habits to start now to get you through the winter and to a better you!

Healthy Habit #1

It’s no  secret I like to be outdoors! While the mountains are a drive for me, I try to go a few times a month to get in a really good workout and enjoy some views. When I’m not able to dedicate a whole day to wellness I like to find other ways of being outdoors. Spending a little time outdoors everyday can make a huge difference in your life. Don’t you just feel better in the sun? Some ideas for ways to get outside locally year round:

• Take a walk around your neighborhood
• Ride a bike
• Bring your workout routine outside
• garden
• do some yard work
• stargaze
• play with your kid or dog in the yard
• visit a state park, Audubon, or nature center
• Build a snowman, make snow angels, or go sledding
• Find a local Meetup group that’s outdoors based
• Join a community sporting group
• bird watch
• go kayaking or swimming
• Do yoga
• Make art inspired by nature
• Walk your city or downtown area
• Have a picnic

Healthy Habit #2

When I’m not on the trail I often find that I’m not drinking enough water. I tried different methods to keep track of my water intake using a notepad, wearing 8 rubberbands on my arm and switching them to the other when I had a glass, and just trying to keep track in my head (that was a fail)!

Lately I’ve been using the Thermos Connected Hydration Bottle with Smart Lid to track my water intake. It’s a sleek water bottle that syncs with my FitBit for easy tracking. If you already track your steps with a FitBit, this is an easy solution. If you use Apple products, the bottle can also sync via Bluetooth with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod with the free Thermos Smart Lid app.

While it’s on the heavy side and not suitable to take on hikes it’s really great to use at home or on the go. The design of the bottle makes it easy to drink without spills, easily fits into a cup holder, and has a great handle. A bottle needs to travel easily with me so I can keep up with proper hydration.

Healthy Habit #3

My personal philosophy is to eat a variety of whole (minimally processed) foods everyday. I don’t restrict my eating or diet. I eat when I’m hungry and try to always fuel my body with what it needs. Incorporating more whole foods into your life makes less room for eating junk. Instead of restricting yourself, you are freeing yourself to eating better. And in my mind, if I’m getting in great nutrients through whole foods, I’m fine to treat myself as well. These all or nothing diets are impossible to stick with and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a daily dose of dark chocolate! There are also so many great whole food choices I’ve discovered for hiking so you don’t have to get out of whack when you hit the trail!

Healthy Habit #4

Getting 7 or more hours of sleep will help you feel rejuvenated in the morning and help you stay productive all day- even without coffee! Make a habit of logging off Facebook and have a night time routine. Giving yourself some consistency at night will help you fall asleep faster. If you haven’t already, take the TV out of your bedroom and grab a good book instead!

Healthy Habit #5

If you’re looking to lose weight, get in shape, declutter, quit smoking, or any similar goals, motivation is key. Plan an event or trip that you need to prepare for. If you know you have a 10k or big backpacking trip coming up, your much more apt to get in shape than just the thought of looking good. You need to be able to perform or you won’t be as successful. Find inspiring photos and make one your computer and phone’s background photo, hang a picture on your fridge or wall, find an online community looking to do the same. Surrounding yourself with like minded people is a great way to stay motivated when things get hard!

Changing your lifestyle may sound like a daunting task, but it really just starts with a single glass of water or a walk in the woods. Consistency is key and if you’re motivated, great things will happen!

Do you have any healthy habits you’re trying to form? Leave a comment below!

Last modified: September 1, 2017