Bid your goodbyes to 2021 - it's that time of the year where we start making New Year resolutions that we can’t keep! 

Jokes aside, the recent years have brought to light how important it is to take care of our health (especially when you have big travel plans for yourself). The old adage “health is wealth” rings true; many of us have taken our wellbeing for granted, only to realise how important it is in keeping us safe and sane in these vulnerable times.

We foresee many health-related resolutions appearing on many people’s lists this year. Here are 8 simple yet achievable New Year resolutions to add to your list for 2022.

1. Eat less processed food

Going on a new fad diet or counting calories does not always stick. How many times has “Get in shape” been on our resolution lists for years, only for it to remain unchecked? Perhaps it might be better to take baby steps in the new year - start off small by making tiny tweaks to your eating behaviours.

Processed food tastes great, but it is often high in sugar, sodium and fat and artificial ingredients. Maintain a healthier diet in the long run by cutting out or eating less processed food, and replace it with natural, whole foods such as grains, nuts, seeds, lean meat, and of course, your daily dose of fruits and vegetables.

2. Head out more

Social distancing and restriction measures have forced us to stay indoors more often than not this year. Many of us are feeling cooped up and uninspired. Just because the world has closed many doors, it shouldn’t stop you from getting out of yours.

Spend a few hours out getting some fresh air, and soaking in the sun (and some Vitamin D). Heading out is also a great way to clear your head and take a break from your daily routine. Whether it’s a quick stroll in the park, a coffee date, or a relaxing day by the beach, you don’t have to make fancy plans just to leave your four walls.

3. Nail your sleeping routine 

Have work-from-home routines messed with your body clock too? As much as we love the flexibility of our new working arrangements, many of us are struggling to stick to a schedule that allows us sufficient sleep.

Set yourself a curfew to stop all work-related activities, to make sure that your body has enough time to wind down for the night. Wake up at a regular timing as well to train your body back to its natural circadian rhythm.

4. Find a hobby

Get yourself a hobby! Or better yet, find someone to share a hobby with! We understand that it may be hard to force yourself to develop a passion for something - so ask yourself what you enjoy doing, or what you want to achieve out of your hobby. Do you like being indoors or outdoors, do you want to be on your feet or within the comforts of your home?

There are communities all across different platforms (e.g. Reddit, Instagram, Facebook) for you to develop and share your hobbies with like-minded people. The possibilities are endless, and it is ultimately up to you to discover where and what you want to spend your spare time doing. 

5. Get off your devices

Speaking of hobbies, one might ask “is scouring YouTube a hobby”? As much as we’d love to agree with you on that one, we recommend spending less time glued to these devices - phone, laptop, iPad, the television, or anything that can lead you to spend mindless hours in front of a screen.

6. Go on a vacation/staycation

It’s been a long year, we all deserve a break. Book yourself a trip, or a staycay, and take the time to explore and step out of your comfort zone. Some rest and relaxation will do wonders for your soul and mental health.

7. Normalise talking about mental health

No one should face their struggles alone. It is important for all of us to move past the stigma of mental health issues. We should normalise conversations surrounding these topics, and build an environment where people are unafraid to share and support each other through their inner battles.

This year, make it a habit to share with someone your feelings and thoughts when you are facing something that is distressing, or even if you’re just having a really bad day.

8. Make yearly health checkups a habit

Being in touch with your body is important. Get regular screenings (at least once a year) to nip problems in the bud before they become a bigger issue. Show yourself more love in the new year by taking care of yourself - don’t forget your prescriptions, eat your vitamins, and make sure that you put yourself and more importantly, your health first. 

Let’s wrap up the year with a renewed mindset: good things are coming our way, let’s aim to be at the peak of our health in order to enjoy them to the fullest. Keep your resolutions simple and sweet - it’s always better to start small, than not at all. Make 2022 the year where you start or perhaps continue on your journey towards a better, healthier you.

Happy New Year!