Plan for 12 months of healthy living in 2017

It’s been a few weeks since you set your goal to improve your health in 2017, and it is going great – or maybe not so much. Whether or not you’ve made any progress, it is never too late to refocus on your health.
Get started by breaking down your goal into smaller, more achievable objectives.
You might begin by setting an intention for each month. You can always expand from there. Remember, good health is about more than exercising or eating vegetables.

Here are some ideas about where to begin:

Start with your heart in February: Before making any changes to your lifestyle, it’s essential to get a baseline. This gives you both a reference point for your end goal and important information about your health, helping you tailor your new routine. Many companies and insurances offer health risk assessments at reduced costs. These can (and should) include body fat index, blood pressure, cholesterol screening and lifestyle questionnaires that assess your risk factors. Your physician can do a check-up that includes these items as well.

Bottoms up in March: March is National Colon and Rectal Cancer Awareness Month. Begin the month by striving to eat more fiber and less fatty meat. Both actions have shown a correlation with cancer reduction, including colon cancer. If you are over 40 or have risk factors, talk to your health care provider about scheduling a colonoscopy.

Spring into April group fitness: Join a group class, find a workout partner or talk to your workplace about group fitness incentives. Staying accountable to a workout partner has been shown to improve fitness levels and keep participants active longer. Now that warm weather is on its way, it is also a great time to set reachable workout goals. If you prefer the guidance of a professional, join a fitness center and meet with a personal trainer.

Graduate your plate in May: The warmer weather also brings an abundance of fruits and vegetables. And local farmer’s markets are full of seasonal options. Strive to fill your plate with additional greens and less carbohydrates, sugars and fats. If you have questions about healthful eating, a dietitian can give you guidance. Many insurance plans even cover consultations.

Avoid the June burn: Kick off the summer months with a skin cancer check at your physician’s office. While in the sun, be sure to cover up with a hat and long-sleeved clothing, and use at least SPF 30 sunscreen.

Make a splash in July: Set the intention to cool off with at least 64 ounces of water per day. Staying hydrated can reduce the risk of heatstroke, and some studies have shown water intake helps with weight loss. Replenishing your fluids also helps you feel fuller longer.

Get into a routine in August: The school year is starting, and many families are getting back on a schedule. Now is a great time to do a self-check. How is your health regimen going? Are you exercising as much as you pledged in the spring? Have you cut out a lot of calorie-laden and sugar-dense foods? It is still not too late. Refocus on your food intake and your exercise output, just in time for a new school year.

It’s worth a shot in September: The vaccinations you received in childhood may not still be protecting you, so make sure you are up-to-date. It is important to stay updated on vaccines like tetanus, shingles, pneumonia and others – particularly as you age. Many workplaces and community centers offer vaccination clinics. Check with your health care provider for vaccinations you may need.

Think pink (and blue) in October: It is no cliché. If you are over 40, or have risk factors, scheduling a mammogram could truly be the best thing you do for your health in 2017. If you are male and over the age of 50, consider instead getting your prostate gland examined. These aren’t the only important screenings for adults, however. The Centers for Disease Control has a full list of preventative care suggestions, which includes screenings, on its website. If your schedule is overwhelming, don’t let that prevent your good health. There are many convenient options out there for screenings, including mobile and community center screening days.

Quit in November: Do you have any lingering habits that may be bad for your health? If you smoke, consider quitting. And if you were or are a heavy smoker, consider also getting a lung screening. This simple screening can detect, cancer and other concerns early, when they are most treatable. If smoking isn’t your habit, take a look at your health and consider quitting (or reducing) alcohol, calorie or fat intake.

De-stress in December: The holidays can be full of stressors, so take some time for yourself. Focus on exercise and healthful versions of your favorite indulgences to keep the stress at bay. And while you are at it, treat yourself to a massage, tai chi or yoga session.

Congratulations! You’ve made it through a year of wellness. Even small steps, like achieving one or two monthly goals, can have a great impact on your health.
In 2017, treat yourself well, and find joy in good choices.

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