Getting past the January hump

Every year, the question most frequently asked on Jan. 1 is, “What is your New Year’s resolution?” We all have things we want to accomplish and changes we hope to see in the new year, so the Argosy asked Mount Allison students to share their resolutions.

“Drinking more water is my first New Year’s resolution. My second resolution is to do something active each day, whether I go to the gym or for a walk through waterfowl park.” – Abby Judges

“This year, I decided that I would focus on cutting down on my stress. Being a varsity athlete makes it difficult at times to have a breather, balancing academics and my many hours spent in the gym.” – Erin Steeves

“This year, I want to get healthy again and get back into shape. I want to improve in school and stay on track with my goals, without being sidetracked by the things that don’t matter.” – Damian Halstead

“[I want] to take no losses in 2017, both in basketball and life, and focus on the good things in life. See the positive in everything.” – Alex Chisolm

As we near the end of January, many of us will have realized that the resolutions we made over the course of the holidays might not be going exactly as planned. And if you’ve found yourself already slipping, keep in mind that the Chinese New Year is this Saturday, Jan. 28.

CNN has reported that quitting smoking is the most difficult resolution to keep. Other lifestyle changes are also often tough to maintain. At Mt. A, it’s easy to fall into a routine of going to class, studying, eating out and staying up late. Since this isn’t exactly helpful in keeping health-related resolutions, here are some tips and tricks that will help you make the most of 2017.

Set goals. Goals are very different from resolutions. Because they are often short-term and much more specific, goals are easier to strive for.

For instance, it is more realistic to tell yourself, “My goal is to do 50 push-ups in a row,” than it is to say, “My resolution is to get ripped.” Treat goals as milestones for the bigger picture.

Don’t waste time on things you cannot control. Disregard them.

Be optimistic and stick to your plan. Statistically, it takes 21 days to develop a new habit. Change won’t happen overnight, so it is key to remember that whatever your resolution may be, it will take time.

Spice up your workouts. Step out of your comfort zone. The fitness centre offers a myriad of classes. Go out and try some Athletic Cardio or Zumba for some fun. Or, if you’re looking for a more strength-related class, go for the Weekend Chisel. Get out and experience the power of group fitness.

Emphasize recovery. A good day starts long before sunrise with a good night’s sleep and although this may seem like a simple routine to get into, it is arguably the most difficult healthy habit to develop.

The Internet, social media, academics and part-time jobs take time away from a healthy sleep, not to mention that lack of sleep heavily influences eating habits and cravings.

Equipment at the fitness center is often at full capacity come January. Ryan Macrae/Argosy

Nourish your body. I’m not saying not to have junk food, but staying hydrated and eating a well-balanced diet helps you live a healthy lifestyle. Having a cheat day or eating comfort food in moderation is a good idea, but the main factor when considering diet is to make sure you get enough of each of the food groups.

LOVE yourself. At the end of the day, you are who you are and to grow, you must appreciate yourself. A healthy lifestyle is as much mental as it is physical.

Remember: healthy living lasts the full 24 hours. Consistency is key and any improvement, small or large, is a step in the right direction.

It’s much easier and encouraging to know that at the end of the day, you have accomplished something that puts you closer to your goal. So here’s to hoping that this year’s resolution, whatever it is, sticks.

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