Start The New Year Right!

Ashley Goudey, Nutrition, Food Safety & Health Agent

There’s no better time than the present to make healthy habits a part of your daily routine.  Small steps such as eating better and exercising can make a great impact on your health. The benefits of exercise are overwhelming and include better sleep, lowering your risk of many diseases, improving emotional health, and sometimes weight loss.  We recommend adults get active anytime and anyway you can for at least 150 minutes a week and children 60 minutes a day! Start healthy habits by following these tips.

Squeeze in exercise. We are all busy but make exercise a priority! The New Year seems to always ring in busier schedules but take advantage of work breaks or time before and after work.  Schedule time on your phone or calendar to get up and move for a few minutes. Exercising before work is a great option for individuals who work late and have busy evenings.

You can also sneak in exercise while doing housework!  Squat or lung while washing dishes or folding laundry.  Put on your favorite music to dance to while dusting and vacuuming.  Get creative and make up your own ways to become more active every day.

Take advantage of nice weather.  You never know what weather may come one day from the next in Kansas so don’t be afraid to make the best out of a gorgeous day by getting active outside.  Hop on a bike or lace up your sneakers and go exploring!  Play a game of basketball, football, or soccer with friends or coworkers. Take a stroll around town on your work breaks and lunch. Don’t forget that your pets need exercise too, take them along with you on your before or after work walks.  Use caution while exercising outdoors during implement weather.

Have fun! Perform exercises that you enjoy and your body will thank you!  If you are new to exercise a nice way to start is by walking. Once you have mastered walking, begin engaging in different activities that spark your interest such as strength training. Get the whole family involved to bond and learn more about personal interests.

Eat better.  You don’t have to go all out and drastically change what you eat all at once.  Small changes are easier to make and sustainable over time.  Small changes can include eating an apple, banana or orange as a snack and drinking more water throughout the day.  Strive to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables over time.

Taking steps to improve your health this year will greatly benefit you for the long run.  Stay Safe, Stay Warm, and Stay Healthy!