6 Healthy Resolutions For 2021 That Don’t Involve Weight Loss

Are you feeling the burn from 2020? 

Many of us have have experienced some pretty dramatic changes this past year. As a result, this new year has made many of us recommit to living healthier lifestyles – but that doesn’t necessarily mean we need to be fixated on the scale. 

If you’re tired of making resolutions about weight loss but still want to be healthy, we’ve got you covered. These resolutions will get you closer to a happier, healthier you, without the guilt that weight loss resolutions usually bring. And on the plus side, incorporating all of these healthy habits every day this year will definitely bring you closer to a healthier weight without making it the main focus! 

1. Eat more colorfully  

It’s no secret that eating more veggies is a good way to lose weight, but that is by no means the only reason that increasing your serving of colorful veggies is good for you. Nutrient deficiencies are pretty common and can lead to health complications down the line, but many times this can be solved simply by increasing the healthy plant-based fare on your plate.  

Eating more vegetables is a surefire way to ensure that you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function normally. Commit to incorporating more vegetables into your meal prep every day, making it a habit so that if there are no colorful veggies on your plate, it’s not a full meal. 

2. Move more 

Many of us have been transitioning into a cozy work-from-home lifestyle, but that often means that we aren’t getting as much exercise as we should be. 

Forget the overcommitment to going to the gym every day to lose weight. Instead, make exercise the goal itself, not the end result. Make a resolution to simply move your body in some way every day, whether it’s pushing weights, going for a trail run, or simply taking a walk outside. You can also make specific exercise resolutions – do you want to run longer distances or lift heavier weights? This way, you’ll be able to see yourself progress. 

You’ll get in the habit of getting your blood pumping every day without becoming disappointed if you can’t immediately meet your weight loss goals. 

3. Practice more mindfulness 

Mental and emotional health are just as important as your physical health, and practicing mindful habits will often trickle into all aspects of your life. Hone your mind-body connection this year by working on increasing your mindfulness. 

From meditating first thing in the morning to practicing more mindful eating habits, you’ll develop a better relationship both with food and with yourself. 

4. Cut down on the sweets 

We’re not talking about cutting carbs because they’re calorie-dense (although that is another good reason to minimize your simple carb intake). Eating too much sugar can have a ton of other negative impacts on your body. Over time, it can increase your insulin resistance, lead to metabolic disease, and even contribute to brain fog! 

Take a break from all those sugary sweets you’ve been snacking on this past month and go for more protein-rich snacks instead. 

5. Perfect your sleeping schedule  

Getting enough quality sleep is often overlooked, but it can be one of the most important healthy habits to have in your arsenal. Irregular sleep schedules, late nights, and sleeping in can throw off your hormone levels, contributing to increased appetite and irritability. 

Try turning off the screens and going to bed a little bit earlier every night to ensure that you’re getting enough hours of sleep. You can also get into a good bedtime routine like meditation to help you wind down quicker. 

You can also start your day off on the right foot by getting up earlier. Once you get into a better sleep schedule, you’ll be more productive in the morning and have more time to take care of all those other healthy resolutions.   

6. Plan ahead. 

Healthy lifestyles usually don’t happen by accident. The healthiest people will have discipline, develop good daily habits, and plan out their days so that it aligns with their goals. 

Once a week, take a couple of minutes to sit down and map out the next couple of days. Having meal prep and workout plans ready for you will make it easier for you to be well on your way to getting healthy. 

By shifting the focus and looking at your overall health, rather than the number on the scale or your body measurements, you’ll get that much closer to making long, sustainable lifestyle changes!