5 Healthy Resolutions You'll Love To Keep in 2012

It’s time to make 2012 your best year yet! Start the year off right by picking a New Year's resolution that’s fun and exiting, but also beneficial. Check out some of the outdated boring ideas listed below and try one of their surprisingly healthy alternatives instead. Whether you want to pick one and stick with it for 2012, or mix things up and try them all, they’re guaranteed to make the next 365 days great.

Out with the old: “I’m not going to make THAT mistake again.”
In with the new: “Make a point to think positively!”
A new year brings lots of new possibilities! Every new semester is filled with all kinds of challenges and assignments, but a fresh start also means a fresh set of opportunities! You never know if you’ll discover a new passion thanks to that elective you signed up for on a whim, or who you’ll end up sitting next to in your new labs and discussions. Studies conducted by the Mayo Clinic have shown that positive thinking can increase your life span, lower your risk of becoming depressed, help you develop a greater immunity to illnesses such as colds, and help build better coping skills when faced with stressful situations. Make a point to find the silver lining in situations, be proud of your unique qualities, and set positive goals to strive for throughout the year. Approach everything with a positive attitude, and you’ll set yourself up for an excellent year!
 
Out with the old: “I’m going to try daring new things.”
In with the new: “Volunteer!”
Sure you could spend break on a beach with your closest friends or sorority sisters or lay around your house all day, but neither of these options offers any direct health benefits. Consider using your spring break to volunteer instead! A report created by the Corporation for National and Community Service describes how volunteers enjoy “lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer.” Many colleges and universities offer alternative spring break programs that give students a chance to travel and meet a certain need in a new community. Other national programs like the Student Conservation Association, United Way and Habitat for Humanity also provide similar opportunities for college students to volunteer around the country. You can also seek out your own opportunities around your hometown or campus. Spend your break getting involved and giving back to your community!