Make 2014 Your Best Year Ever

If you’re like most people, you’ve already made, and broken, a few New Year’s resolutions.  Not to worry!   2014 still offers plenty of opportunity to make this year your best ever.  Start by making your health and well-being a priority and then find small steps you can take every day that will really pay dividends. Here are a few tips that can help you stay happy and healthy in the New Year:

1.    Exercise

We all know that exercise is essential for good health but most people don’t get enough of it.  Most experts recommend at least 30 minutes of pulse-raising exercise a minimum of three to five days a week.  The good news is, you don’t need an expensive gym membership or fancy equipment to get active.  Find ways to save money and get the exercise you need in the comfort of your own home . 

2.    Boost Your Brain Health

Exercise isn’t only essential for your body, it’s also good for your brain.  Scientists have found that regular physical and mental activity can actually boost brain health by helping to grow new brain cells. Check out AARP’s Brain Games and play your way to better brain health .

3.    Eat Healthier

This is another one of those no-brainers, but for some reason is one of the hardest resolutions to stick to.  There’s so much temptation out there that eating healthy can seem like a daunting task.  The trick?  Start by making small, manageable changes in your eating habits (think smaller portions or add an extra serving of fresh veggies to each meal) and don’t deprive yourself of the foods you love.  Learn about the New American Diet and meet AARP members who are succeeding with this eating plan.

4.    De-Stress

While getting rid of all the stress in your life is probably not possible, learning to better manage stress can help improve your outlook on life, as well as your overall health. Find tips for managing stress and help beat those winter blahs .

5.    Re-Connect

Did you know that your social life – the time you spend with friends and family – can help make you healthier?  Make time to reconnect with old friends – or make new ones – and help improve your health and well-being in 2014.  Find ways to enhance your friendships for more healthy benefits .    

The New Year is full of new possibilities and at AARP, we want to help you make 2014 your best year ever.  For more tips and inspiration that can help you live your best life, visit www.aarp.org.

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