A recent study from Columbia University found that the average person makes about 70 daily decisions.
Making small changes can have a significant impact on your health and wellness.
Here are some minor changes that have made a big difference in my life.
-
Once a week, try a new food or recipe. It's a great way to expand your culinary skills, and you may discover a new favorite. Try one of the healthy recipes I have on this site!
-
Sit less, move more. Take a walk after dinner instead of watching TV. One hour of rapid walking after a meal cuts the rise in blood fats by 12 percent. Plus, it gives you valuable "family time" away from the distractions of home.
-
Try a new hobby or a new sport. For example, try spinning or a yoga class; you'll work different muscles, avoid exercise burnout, and most likely enjoy the unique experience.
-
Read a little at a time. Instead of vowing to "read more," resolve to read one chapter (or a certain number of pages) of a book each day or week.
-
Exercise in small batches. No time for 30 minutes of exercise? Three 10-minute blocks of activity can add up to the same heart-healthy benefits as a full half-hour.
-
Try a new whole grain. Have you tried Farro yet? There is an excellent Farro recipe on this site.
-
Make one vegetarian meal a week.
-
Practice kindness. Surprise someone with a little gift for no reason.
-
Socialize with older relatives and neighbors.
-
Be good to yourself. Give yourself the gift of silence. Schedule 10 minutes a day all to yourself, with no TV, cell phones, e-mail, or other distractions. A little silence goes a long way toward reducing stress.
-
Keep a journal. I write in my journal every day.
-
Breathe. Focused breathing slows your heart rate, reduces stress, and helps you feel calmer and more relaxed.
-
Drink more water.
