This is the time many people are thinking about new ideas, things they want to change and resolutions to be made to make for a better year.  Thoughts, actions, and knowledge matter when making healthy changes.

Here are some ideas to consider when getting started and informational links in case you are interested in learning more.

1. Diet matters. Discover the many benefits of adding vegetables and fruits to your meals. Vegetables and fruits don’t just add fiber and nutrients, they also add color, flavor, texture, and variety. Bring healthy foods into your home and then onto your table. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/FY/FY142000.pdf

2. Exercise matters. When your body is physically active, you improve your state of mind, self-esteem, self-confidence, and wellbeing. Staying physically active and being properly nourished are two of the most important things you can do to stay healthy and control body weight. Keep moving! https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY1498  ; https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY669

3. Sleep matters. Get plenty of restful sleep. Adults should aim for seven to nine hours per night. Set a sleep schedule for both morning and evening. Be consistent with your wake and sleep times, even on the weekends. Rest your mind. Rest your body. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html

4. Mindfulness matters. Practice deep breathing when your emotions are running high. Breathe in through your nose to a count of four, hold for one second, and then exhale through the mouth to a count of five. Repeat often, as needed. Be mindful of your breathing and thoughts during the day. Keep thoughts positive. Step away from stress and take a deep breath when needed. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY1498

5. Kindness matters. Be nice. Be kind. Research shows that doing something nice for your partner, such as making their morning coffee or showing them more affection, can boost your emotional well-being, regardless of whether or not your partner notices. Engage in acts of kindness, as able. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY1498; https://smartcouples.ifas.ufl.edu/engaged/having-fun-and-staying-close/the-role-of-kindness-compassion-generosity/

6. Food Safety matters. Remember the four food safety principles do apply during all types of food preparation: clean, separate, cook, and chill. Keeping your family safe from food borne illness is important to good health. http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2021/01/21/food-safety-tip-do-not-wash-raw-chicken/; http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2021/01/21/food-safety-tip-do-not-wash-raw-chicken/ ; http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2018/08/13/what-you-need-to-know-about-foodborne-illness-and-food-safety/

7. Hydration matters. Water helps your body use nutrients, helps your body get rid of wastes, and helps you maintain a normal body temperature. Your body is made up of mostly water. Staying adequately hydrated is very important in preventing dehydration, which can be very serious. http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2021/02/17/consume-safe-drinking-water-during-an-emergency/ ; http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2018/08/17/prevent-dehydration-in-broward-drink-water-often/

8. Handwashing matters. Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective methods of preventing the spread of infection. Clean hands can save lives. http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2020/03/06/preventing-the-spread-of-germs-and-viruses/

9. Self-Care matters. Maintaining good health and adopting positive behaviors that promote wellbeing are very important to a healthy and satisfying life. Practice good personal hygiene. Engage in positive thinking. Address mental health issues, as needed. Schedule annual medical appointments with your health care providers. Eat a well-balanced diet, get regular exercise and adequate sleep. http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/browardco/2021/07/26/time-to-focus-on-self-care/

10. Caring and compassion matter. The ability to understand, manage, and respect your feelings, values, stressors, and attitudes along with respecting the feelings of others can help contribute to your emotional wellness. Find ways of managing your emotions in a constructive way. Manage your stress. Care for yourself and others and be compassionate with yourself and others. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY1498

11. Thoughts matter. Engage in productive and positive thinking. Practice forgiveness towards yourself and other people. Generate a positive outlook. Engage in positive self-talk. Avoid negativity and negative behavior patterns. Do your best. Go easy on yourself today. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FY1498

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