Happy New Year! January 1 is a time when we sit and set resolutions, many of which we discard before the month ends. However, in life, goals are important and those goals should consist of health-based targets for living a more rewarding life in tip-top shape. Below are seven health goals we should set and work towards achieving this year.

1. Walk more

Ten minutes a day of brisk walking can increase circulation, lift your spirits, and enhance sleep. If you want to increase your walking in 2023, try breaking it up into 10-minute sessions to make it less intimidating. Remember, if while walking you can talk but your breathing is faster than usual, you are walking briskly enough.

2. Spend less time sitting down

The body wasn’t designed to sit in front of the TV or at a desk for long periods of time. It raises your chances of developing diabetes; cardiovascular disease; and breast, colon, and colorectal cancer. Why not break up your desk time with the Pomodoro method? Set a timer so that each hour will be divided into two 25-minute blocks and two 5-minute pauses. During the work periods concentrate on your work, and during the breaks move around. Make use of your breaks to stand up, perform a quarter squat, rotate, or simply take a lap around the office. When you’re working, this strategy can improve your concentration.

3. Plan meals

Just purchasing what you need reduces calories and waste, while saving you money. Before you go shopping, take the time to plan your meals and make a list.

4. Make sure you’re enrolled for 2023 health insurance coverage

Do you have health insurance next year? If you aren’t sure, now’s the time to double-check. Call your insurance providers and review your existing plans or make an appointment to get some amount of coverage. It’s protection you need when you least expect it.

5. Schedule your annual check-ups

Most individuals don’t enjoy going to the doctor, especially if everything seems to be in order. However, as the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Plan a time for your yearly check-up or well-woman appointment. Remember to schedule a dental cleaning or two while you have your calendar out.

6. Drink more water

Drinking a few more glasses of water each day can significantly improve your general health, particularly in warm weather or when you are exercising hard. The daily recommended intake is eight glasses of water. A glass typically measures eight ounces so a simple way is to invest in a 64 ounce bottle, fill it with water and complete it by the end of the day. If you don’t like plain water, flavour it with infused fruit, herbs, or tea bags, but avoid processed sugar, sodas, and other artificially sweetened beverages.

7. Improve your sleep hygiene

Good sleep hygiene is crucial for both physical and mental health. You likely already know some of the simplest advice for getting more rest: consistent pattern, avoid using screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime, and keep phones away and on mute. It’s important to get those eight hours in.