December 11, 2020
It’s that time of year when we all reflect on our lives and decide whether we want to make a commitment to change. Do we jump into some sort of fitness challenge? Maybe pick up a new hobby? Stick to a budget? The options are endless, so when it comes to picking one that improves your health, we went straight to the source and asked. Drumroll please… Here are your 10 doctor-approved New Year’s resolutions:
For those who like to keep things simple
Sit less; stand more. — Brady Fleshman, MD, Family Medicine
For those feeling the weight of 2020
Your emotional health is as important as your physical health. Commit yourself to carving out some time each day to de-stress. Do something you enjoy, like exercise, read a book or watch your favorite movie. — Laine Young-Walker, MD, Behavioral Health
For those who know they have a phone problem
Create a limit on the amount of time spent on your phone that could be better used for healthier mental and physical activities. — Arun Kumar, MD, Cardiology
… or a problem with screen time in general
Be wise and take care of your eyes! Lots of screen time can cause eye strain. Commit to giving your eyes a break every 20 minutes to exercise your body and brain instead. — Raneat Cohen, OD, Optometry
For those who want to keep their skin looking and feeling fresh
Wear SPF 30+ on your face every day, regardless of weather! Keeps wrinkles away and prevents skin cancer! — Ashley Jenkins, MD, Dermatology
For those who don’t like surprises
Commit to reading food labels. This is especially important if you have a food allergy or intolerance. Food components can be buried in the ingredient list, so look closely! — Christine Franzese, MD, Allergy and Immunology
For those who looking to improve their physical and mental health
Commit to 30 minutes of physical activity every day. That can be taking a walk, working out, going for a bike ride, dancing, gardening or really whatever you might enjoy. Also, set aside enough time for a good night’s sleep, which is seven to nine hours for the average adult. Both lead to improved physical and health. — Sarah Swofford, MD, Family Medicine
For those looking to give their kidneys (and other vital organs) some love
Drink at least 60 ounces of water each day (unless your doctor tells you otherwise) for good kidney health. — Katie Murray, DO, Urology
For those who like to keep things “undercover”
Learn proper Kegel exercises and commit to practicing them three to five times per week (in line at the store, stopped in traffic, waiting for your coffee to brew, etc.). Your future gynecologic health will be thankful! — Melissa Terry, MD, Women’s Health
For those who want to avoid the ER (aka everyone)
Always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. — Christopher Sampson, MD, Emergency Medicine
Next Steps and Useful Resources
