New Year’s Resolutions for Healthy Living and a Better Immune System

The holidays can be tough on your immune system and your overall well-being. But the New Year is the perfect time to resolve to take better care of your body and make a move to healthier living. As we approach the turn of the year, consider these steps you can take to keep your body functioning at its best. 

Resolutions for a Better Immune System

Adequate and Restful Sleep - You may think you can live on 5 hours of sleep, but your body actually needs 7-9 hours per night. With that goal in mind, consider these tips to help your sleep be more restful. 

• Have a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on the weekends. 
• Use a pillow between your knees to keep your back aligned.
• Power down and don’t use electronics 30 minutes before you go to bed.
• Find the right pillow for your neck so that it is in a neutral position. 
• Get regular exercise.
• Don’t eat or drink late into the evening. 
• Make your bedroom sleep-friendly by darkening the room, and finding ways to drown out or stop other noises.
• Visit your chiropractor, to help with pain and other issues causing insomnia, says Sleep.org.

Exercise Regularly - Resolve to exercise daily, but if that is a challenge, start with a minimum of 30 minutes three times a week. Your body fights infections better when it is performing at its best. 

Consider trying a new outdoor sport or getting back to loving a winter sport on snow and ice from your youth. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating are excellent ways to get your heart pumping and enjoy the Minnesota winter wonderland. Check out these tips on being safe while outside in the cold.  

Proper Nutrition - Mind what you put into your body to help it perform at its best. 

A few years ago, we suggested your number one resolution should be to drink more water. As a reminder, fill a tall glass or water bottle and empty it at least 4-8 times each day. This will help you keep that resolution.

Staying away from processed foods will go a long way to giving your body proper nutrition. The additives and processing are hard for your system to absorb. Consider eating whole foods like lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. When your digestive system is working correctly, you will feel like exercising. And, that’s a big win for the New Year.

Modulate and Avoid Excess Stress - Our lives are full of stress, but understanding how to avoid or modulate will improve your overall health and wellbeing. One great way to modulate is taking time to breathe. A bit of meditation each day can clear your mind and help your overall circulation. Check out these additional ideas for dealing with stress. 

As we look to a new year, consider how you can boost your immune system naturally and look to a healthier New Year.