Five Personal Health New Year’s Resolutions

At the approach of each New Year, I seem to reflect on the past mistakes and avow not to repeat them only to realize that it’s a cycle! I end up making the same wishes for New Year’s Health Resolutions. Perhaps, it’s an indication that I have set a bar that is too high. Incidentally, a measure of one’s health can be summarized by ideal weight (or bmi), balancing the diet, emotional well being, and increasing overall stamina and flexibility.


Weight

World Health Organization defines BMI (or body mass index) as a ratio between weight in kg divided by the square of the height in meters. Hence, a person with BMI greater than 25 is considered overweight and over 30 is obese. Thus, as my first goal, I resolve to reduce weight by the end of 2012.

A great way to reduce weight is to start working out. Any trainer (such as the one I consult with at YMCA) will recommend spending at least 30 minutes on a rigorous Cardio routine, and between 20 – 30 minutes on muscle toning. Lifting weights burns more calories, while reducing the fat content that has accumulated in the body.


The Diet

This new year, I resolve to eat healthier! Not only will a well-balanced diet improve the blood pressure and cholesterol levels, it also benefits the general appearance like skin, hair, and teeth. In addition, I resolve to check the calorie counter and chart for nutrition information when I eat out because weight loss/gain is number of caloric intake minus number of calories burned. Check out some good diet tips by Dr. Oz.


Emotional Health

This new year, I resolve to be happier! I keep in touch with my friends and buddies through the popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instant Messaging services such as Skype, Yahoo! Messenger, or MSN Instant Messenger.

Another great way to reduce stress and relax is by joining a Yoga class (such as Bikram Yoga). Their poses, along with exercises like Pilates, will stretch those important muscles that we tend to overwork, as well as help our minds remove unwanted thoughts (as explained by Art Of Living Yoga Center). As my third resolution, I have decided to learn Sudarshan Kriya at the Art of Living Center.


Maintain Stamina

Success is not instantaneous, so daily repetitions of exercises can increase your overall stamina. This new year, I resolve to take up jogging, hiking, or bicycling. These activities over a long distance can improving the heart rate and increase your stamina. These also offer a great excuse to explore the outdoors. As my fourth resolution, I avow to familiarize myself with the local parks and trails in my neighborhood!


Flexibility

A sedentary lifestyle can reduce muscle tone and increase weight. A great way to keep those muscles moving is by joining gymnastics, swimming, or taking up a dance class (such as Jazzercise). Not only do these activities offer a good aerobic exercise, but they also increase your overall flexibility. As my fifth resolution, I will join a dance class.

This list is a general guideline to leading a healthy lifestyle, as these are just a few of my recommendations. As always, I check with my doctor for restrictions or hazards before making any alterations to my daily routine. It’s also a good idea to keep a diary, maintain a weight chart, and record any emotional activity that is unusual. By the end of 2012, I hope to be more healthier by being heart conscious!


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