Adopting healthy habits improves overall well-being – and what better time than the start of a new year to make your health and well-being a top priority? Here are five easy ways to start making 2024 your healthiest year yet:

Increase your daily activity levels.

Regular exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle. It can improve mood, boost energy levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. When incorporating more physical activity into your routine:

• Find things you enjoy that fit into your lifestyle, whether it’s dancing, cycling, or simply taking a brisk walk. Take the stairs or park further from your destination to get more steps and movement wherever you can throughout each day.
• Create a workout plan that fits your schedule (and stick to it).
• Start small and work up to bigger goals. Even small amounts of exercise can make a big difference in the long run.

Join our patient portal to stay on top of your appointments, lab results and more.

With secure online access to your health information – viewable anytime, anywhere – our HealtheLife patient portal provides many features that empower you to take a more active role in you and your family’s healthcare and better adhere to treatment plans. You can learn more about HealtheLife here, and set up your account here.

As a patient on the HealtheLife portal, you can:

• Quickly send messages to your care team and provider(s).
• Check your lab and imaging results.
• View your medical records across all your health visits and providers (primary care, specialty care, emergency care and others) within Kearny County Hospital and our Family Health Center.
• Read after-visit summaries.
• View upcoming appointments and set up reminders.

Fuel your body with smart food choices.

Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for your overall health and well-being. Proper nutrition offers your body the necessary nutrients to function optimally.

• Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to get your essential vitamins and minerals.
• Avoid or reduce your intake of processed foods, sugar and salt.
• Planning your meals ahead of time can streamline your path to healthier choices. Preparing meals in advance can also assist in maintaining a healthy diet while feeding your family or keeping to a budget.

Rest well at night for maximum energy and a clear head every day.

The benefits of adequate sleep are often overlooked, but it’s crucial for maintaining good health. Proper rest helps with memory consolidation, mood regulation and a healthy immune system.

• Avoid distractions, like television and smartphone use, before bed and while trying to fall asleep. Reading and calming music work well for many people – but it’s important to find what helps you sleep best and stick to that.
• Stay away from caffeine as the day goes on – it’s best to keep caffeinated beverages to a morning treat.
• Keep your sleep environment comfortable, dark, and cool. Try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.

Reduce stress for a healthier mind and body.

Stress can take a toll on your mental and physical health and has been shown to contribute to chronic health problems. Managing stress is essential for a healthier, happier life. Consider these stress-reduction techniques:

• Practice mindfulness and meditation to stay present and reduce anxiety.
• Incorporate deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.
• Find hobbies or activities that help you relax and unwind.

Successful New Year’s resolutions require commitment, dedication and planning. To learn more about developing healthier habits and staying with them, contact your primary care provider. Let’s work together toward a healthier and happier 2024!