As the new year begins, many people feel the urge to completely change their lifestyles all at once. But hospitals, including Trinity Health System, are urging a different approach: small, mindful changes are often more effective than drastic overhauls.
Experts suggest that most New Year’s resolutions fail because they are overly ambitious. Instead of aiming for perfection, focusing on small, sustainable habits can lead to lasting improvements in both physical and mental health.
Wendy Ralston, director of nursing operations and behavioral health services at Trinity, emphasizes this idea: “It’s about progress, not perfection. Small daily actions can make a big difference. Trying to do too much at once can lead to burnout.” She believes that taking gradual steps is the key to developing habits that stick over time.
To support residents in their wellness journeys, Trinity and CommonSpirit Health offer several practical tips:
- Check-in with your doctor: Kick off the new year by visiting your primary care provider. Monitoring important health markers like blood pressure and cholesterol can guide your wellness efforts.
- Reframe exercise: Movement can happen anywhere. Simple activities, like taking the stairs or walking for 15 minutes, can help break a sedentary lifestyle.
- Add, don’t restrict: Instead of cutting foods, focus on adding nutritious options. Incorporating more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables can improve health markers, like cholesterol levels.
- Cook at home: Cooking meals at home not only encourages healthier eating but also helps with weight management. Studies show that people who prepare five or more home-cooked meals weekly are nearly a third less likely to be overweight.
- Care for your mental health: Managing stress is essential. Taking just five minutes a day for stress-reducing activities—like meditation or spending time with loved ones—can have a lasting impact.
Ralston points out the importance of mental well-being in our resolutions. “Progress isn’t always straight. There will be ups and downs, but sticking to your small habits—even imperfectly—is crucial for maintaining wellness,” she says. “Every day offers a new chance to make a positive choice, and it’s okay to stumble. Acknowledge it, reset, and keep moving forward.”
This perspective aligns with recent surveys showing that only around 20% of individuals stick to their New Year’s resolutions long-term. A focus on manageable changes could increase that number significantly.
In a time where wellness is more important than ever, especially post-pandemic, thoughtful adjustments may redefine how we approach health. Small, consistent efforts can lead to transformative changes, both physically and mentally.
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