Have you thought of your New Year’s resolutions yet? If you’re waiting until January, you might want to consider making some changes now. As we say goodbye to summer and welcome cooler weather, after school sports and a busier social season, the adjustment can almost feel like the start of a new year. The start of fall can be a new January – the perfect time to hit the reset button, take stock and create a new routine that works for you and your family.
According to the Journal of Clinical Psychology study, only about eight percent of people who make lofty New Year’s resolutions actually stick with their goals. Making changes doesn’t mean doing something drastic. As your family makes a transition into this new season, make a family resolution to set up you and your family for success. Consider starting with these three resolutions to help get started:
Take Time to Recharge
Busy calendars and new routines are stressful. Promise yourself to make daily changes by taking time to slow down, clear your head and feed your brain. Mindfulness activities are known to decrease anxiety and can improve your working memory, focus, cognitive flexibility and relationship satisfaction. A little extra sleep can go a long way for both your mental and physical health. Lack of sleep may alter your ability to process emotions and keep them in check and sleep deprivation can put you at higher risk for stroke and obesity.
Have a Family Meal at the Table
With busy schedules, homework and technological distractions, it has become increasingly difficult to get the whole family at the dinner table at the same time. According to The Harris Poll, only four out of 10 American families are happy with how frequently their family dines together. Not only is the dinner table a place to spend time with your children, but it’s also a place to instill healthy eating habits. Make your dinner table a technology free zone and connect with each other without distractions. Have your children share their ‘high’ and ‘low’ for the day to get them engaged in conversation. Talk about recent events in the news, and even let them invite a friend once in a while to make it fun.
Step to Better Fitness
Establish a healthy lifestyle balance into your busy schedule and make an appointment with yourself to exercise for 30 minutes a day. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity. Use the time to clear your mind and place your health at the top of your priority list. If you are looking to shake up your fitness routine, check out the fitness classes offered at your local YMCA or fitness center. Many offer convenient class times that will work with any schedule. Take advantage of cooler fall weather and spend more time outside. Go on a long family walk or bike ride on the weekends or after dinner to get a little more active.
Use these three activities to jump start your fall and remember to put health first. Making small healthy changes this fall will set you up well for the rest of 2017 and beyond.