The new year is always a time to try new things, set new goals, and make new resolutions to better ourselves. Many resolutions are health-related, and for good reason: being in top form, physically and mentally, gives you the energy and focus to achieve other goals.

The problem? Lots of resolutions are too vague or unrealistic, and we end up not following through on them.

Rather than making such big resolutions, set small, specific and actionable ones instead. Here are some health resolutions that are easy to implement and keep:

Go on a vacation

Besides being a break from your routine to unwind, a vacation also improves your well-being. If your vacation involves lots of physical activity - such as hiking or skiing – you’ll be getting a cardio exercise at the same time. It also reduce your stress levels by removing you from activities and environments that you associate with stress and anxiety.

So, if you haven’t been to a vacation for some time, perhaps you should plan one this year. Don't forget to get the necessary travel vaccinations before you fly - they'll keep you safe against any illness that may strike.

Read more: Your Holiday Checklist - 8 Things to do Before Your Vacation 


Travel Essentials

Learn something new

The new year is the perfect time to learn something new. Not only will it improve your self-confidence, you also lower your risk of dementia. You can pick up a skill that enhances your professional life or consider self-improvement courses that may be useful in your everyday life, such as lifesaving skills. If you don’t want to commit to a course that takes months to complete, there are short courses lasting one or two days long that you can consider.

Watch what you eat

Frequent eating at your desk at work, an unhealthy diet, and snacking throughout the day – these bad habits are likely to cause overeating and make you put on extra weight. Eat out more with your coworkers instead of eating al desko. Incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Replace your snacks with healthier options. Supplement your diet with vitamins if you feel you aren’t getting enough nutrition. Eating better will make you feel more energetic and active, and reduce your risk of falling sick.

Stop putting off your health checkups

Getting your health and teeth checked may seem like an afterthought, or something you’ve been constantly putting off. This year, make time to get your health checked. By taking a few hours of your time, you can get an overview of your health and identify any potential health risks, so you can prevent any serious health problems from occurring later on.


Select Health Screening Packages

Sleep more, and sleep better

Sleep is essential to our well-being, yet many people are not getting enough of it. According to a research, about half of Singaporeans get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each day, and less sleep through the night. Make a promise to improve your sleep habits. It could be going to bed earlier, developing better sleep hygiene, or eating some melatonin before you sleep.

Read more: 5 tips to get better sleep

Make time to volunteer

Volunteering for a worthwhile cause benefits your community and makes a difference in the lives of others. At the same time, it is a rewarding experience and keeps you healthy. Research has shown that volunteering offers many health benefits, such as:

  • Experiencing a mood boost from helping others, also known as the helper’s high;
  • Decreasing your risk of depression;
  • Helping you stay physically and mentally active;
  • Helping you meet others and building your network

Many organisations offer volunteering opportunities. It can be spending time helping in an animal shelter, or distributing groceries to the needy. You can even join your organisation’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme as well.