January 1 is here! It’s the time for many of us to think about new year’s resolutions—some feel excitement about “starting over” and some may think, “why bother?”. Most new year’s resolutions are broken and then forgotten within a short amount of time—and why? Maybe we chose too many things to realistically change, maybe the goals were too vague—unmeasurable, maybe we didn’t have any support for maintaining new behaviors—there are several reasons people have a hard time sticking to their new year’s resolutions.
Serving as a parish nurse within a health ministry, the focus is on whole person health, which encompasses physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, intellectual, social, and vocational wellbeing. Activities and newsletter articles throughout the year address these parts of our lives with specific information and support.

Here are a few ideas to help you start a healthier 2025!

    Stop “dieting”. Eat whole foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, lean meat and fish), cook more meals at home,               go grocery shopping regularly to keep the pantry stocked up, and rely less on convenience foods.
 Sit less and move more; find a physical activity that you enjoy. Get outside more. Visit the gym.
 Cut back on sweetened beverages and sugary foods.
 Cut back on alcohol.
 Get more quality sleep.
 Try prayer or meditation.
 Join a Bible study group. Regularly attend worship.
 Take a vacation—even a short one.
 Stop negative self-talk.
 Limit screen time—tv, phone, computer, video games, social media.
 Take more ‘me time’ and practice self-care. Try a new hobby or pick one back up that you used to enjoy. Try a new volunteer                 activity.
 Be more mindful and present in the moment—examples are to spend less time on your phone, stop to notice your environment,              and listen intently to others.
 Visit your doctor—update your health screenings and blood work. Keep your immunizations current.
 Take care of your teeth—brush, floss, see the dentist for an exam and a cleaning at least annually.

Pick one or two of these ideas that will help you be healthier. Set a measurable goal, complete with the steps to achieve that goal. Write the goal down—and keep track of your progress. If you fall short on one day, just start again the next day on course.

Any time throughout the year, contact Nancy to plan goals, to find support to achieve and maintain better health and wellbeing, or to discuss other health-related questions or needs! 😊

See the Parish Nurse New Link below for more health and wellness information!