13 New Years resolutions for a fitter, happier & healthier you in 2013

“2013 New Year” from e-renter.com

Every year you hear about everybody making New Years resolutions to lose weight, or hit the gym; well, this year I’d like to help you to reach a healthier you in 2013. Here are 13 tips, ideas and suggestions for making your New Years resolutions.

1. Drink more water! As simple as drinking water may be, it has a HUGE impact on your health. Making sure that you keep well hydrated can help with fatigue, weight loss and overall immunity.

2. Be wary of your calorie intake via alcohol. In one of my previous articles “Avoiding the Freshman 15,” I mentioned how alcohol can sneakily add hundreds of calories to your diet. (Three shots of Bacardi has about the same amount of calories as a MacDonald’s Burger.)

3. Vary your activities: Tired of running on the treadmill? Try activities such as spinning, kayaking, yoga or rock climbing.

4. Set aside time in your schedule for yourself. “You” time is extremely important, so for 2013, try to set aside a little in your life.

5. Try to get rid of, or limit the time taken up by the unhealthy relationships and friendships in your life. (You know the people I’m talking about.)

6. Aim for balance in your diet. This does not mean limiting yourself to a strict diet, but rather aim for a well balanced meal each time you go to eat.

7. Make a yearly bucket list. Try to think of a couple things you would like to do within this next year, and make it happen!

8. Volunteer: it may seem simple, but volunteer work is one of the things that you can do which gives not only a great reward, but also helps the community around you.

9. Have a techno-detox. Try going for a couple days or a week without your beloved technology. Can you get off Facebook for a week? Are you able to put down your Droid for the weekend? It’s not only refreshing, but will help you to get more engaged with your surroundings.

10. Take a class! Whether it is kickboxing, painting or First Aid classes, try to learn something new this next year.

11. Take care of the skin your in. As seen in my “Five Fast Facts about Tanning” article, UV rays can be extremely dangerous to all skin types. This year take care of your skin, you’ll be all the more thankful in the long run.

12. Rekindle old friendships! Get in touch with old friends, classmates or colleagues during 2013.

13. Listen to your body. Your body gives you strong signals when you need a break whether you’re cramming for that test or running that extra mile. Listening to your body will only help your health, so please… Listen!

Well readers, until next time, have a safe and happy New Year & resolve for a healthier you in 2013!