Want a healthier 2016? 7 simple ideas with big impact
(BPT) – For many, the new year brings with it new ambitions to live better. Health and wellness lead resolution lists in 2016, but that doesn’t necessarily mean calorie counting and clocking treadmill miles. Eating well doesn’t mean food should be bland, and working out doesn’t have to be boring. These seven ideas will help you have a healthier, happier and tastier new year.
Enjoy a new activity
Have you always wanted to try skiing? Wish you knew how to ballroom dance? Think snow-shoeing might be a blast? There’s no better time to try something new. Activities like these engage the body and the brain. You’ll likely have so much fun, you won’t realize you’re working out.
Use feta cheese
Think you need to give up cheese in order to eat healthier? Not true. Tangy, robust feta is lower in calories than many other cheese varieties and is the perfect addition to many meals. Try Nikos Feta, available in fat-free and traditional varieties. Feeling bold? Try Nikos flavored feta varieties like Mediterranean, tomato basil and peppercorn.
Get workout buddies
Having a friend to workout with holds you accountable, so you’ll keep each other on track. For example, plan to walk once a day with your spouse. Join the running club at work. Sign up for a yoga class with your best bud. You’ll work out more consistently, plus it’s a lot more fun with a friend.
Explore vitamin-packed recipes
Eating healthy doesn’t mean you need to limit yourself to oatmeal and carrot sticks. Have fun exploring new recipes while fueling your body with wholesome, tasty ingredients. Check out websites like www.nikosfeta.com to get inspiration. Just try to resist the Roasted Chickpea & Feta Kale Salad recipe!
Make play part of your day
Kids play all day long which is fantastic exercise. Join in on the fun! Start a game of tag, throw a ball, set up an obstacle course with couch cushions – the kids will love it and everyone will get their hearts pumping. No kids? No problem. Take Fido out to play fetch and run around the yard.
Pack healthy snacks
It’s the 3 p.m. slump at work. You’re tired, hungry and longing for 5 o’clock. In a desperate attempt to make it through the day, you hit up the vending machine. Stop! Give your body sustained energy by packing wholesome snacks for the week. Feta and crackers, fresh apples and berries, whole nuts and yogurt – all easy options that will attack afternoon hunger pangs.
Make time for sleep
When days get busy, sleep is often the first thing sacrificed. Insufficient sleep is a growing public health concern, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and is linked to motor vehicle crashes, industrial disasters and medical and other occupational errors. Make sure you make time for sleep by aiming for seven or more hours a day. You’ll feel better and will be more productive, too.