With the new year often comes the desire to get into shape, be healthier, lose a few pounds, etc. Whether you have been working on these goals or wish to, I’ve compiled a list of a few small changes I’ve found that I can make to live a healthier lifestyle without going completely all in.
- Walk Instead
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Walking can be a great way to get some fresh air and to get your muscles moving! If you have class in person, walk to class! If not, distance permitting, you could walk to the gym, library, or a friend’s place. If you do not have any of these available options, you could also walk about your local park or even walk to different stores on a shopping day.
- Salty Snack
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Some salty snacks that I have found are a healthier alternative to ones I was previously eating include chips and popcorn. These are two salty snacks that I adore, but I know they are not good for me. Instead of chips, I have been eating veggie straws, a better alternative. While still not amazing for you, it is a small change that I have found still tastes great! As for popcorn, I have found making my own popcorn tends to be much healthier than using microwave popcorn. I use coconut oil in a pot and then pour in some kernels and top with salt. This way is more time consuming, so if you’re in a crunch, Skinny Pop is also a healthier alternative to microwave popcorn yet it still tastes good.
- Get Moving!
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Moving in any way is good for your body! With COVID, I know many of us are stuck at a desk all day and this isn’t great when you want to be healthier or lose some weight. Getting up to do an ab workout, yoga, going for a walk with a friend, hitting the gym, going ice skating, or attending an online Zumba class are all great options to get up and get your body moving. You don’t have to do something intense like go to the gym, but even going for a walk with a friend is a good way to get up and get your body moving when you’ve been sitting down all day.
- Lots of Sleep
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Sleep is essential to be a brighter, healthier, and happier you! I have always been someone who strives to get lots of sleep every night. In getting a good 8 hours in, you will be more productive and on track to that healthier lifestyle you are seeking!
- Sweet Snack
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A sweet snack I have recently discovered that I love is peanut butter and banana. Peanut butter is a great sweet treat that you can pair with something healthy! You could also eat peanut butter with celery or apples. I’ve found that eating this instead of Oreos or cookies is a much healthier alternative by getting some fruit or veggies in my body at the same time.
- Lots of Water
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I am someone who loves my sugary drinks whether it be soda or coffee. However, one adjustment I’ve tried to make is to drink more water! While I’m still going to enjoy a sugary drink, and I personally know I don’t want to cut it out of my diet completely, I try to drink lots of water throughout the day. A good way I have found to do this is to take my water bottle EVERYWHERE. If it’s there with me, I’m more likely to drink it.
- Small Meal Adjustments
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Small meal adjustments can be huge when it comes to living a healthier lifestyle. If you’re having chicken for dinner one night, try carrots and ranch instead of fries. If you’re having scrambled eggs for breakfast, pair it with a banana. Small changes like these that incorporate fruits and veggies into your meals is so much better for you. Or if you’re eating tofu and rice, add some peas to it! It’s simple adjustments or additives like these that are going to steer you in the direction of a healthier life.
Again, I am someone who would love to be 100% healthy, but as a college student who is extremely busy and loves fast food, I know it is not realistic for me. These are just some small adjustments I’ve tried to make so far this year to try to live a healthier lifestyle.