During this time of resolutions, new beginnings and fresh starts, getting 2026 started on a healthier track is on the mind of so many of us. While diet fads and strict regimens can feel overwhelming, making small, realistic changes can have a big impact. Here are five simple, achievable ways to start the new year feeling healthier and more energized.
Drink More Water
While this tip is something physicians and dieticians have been preaching for years, staying hydrated is easier than ever. There are fewer beverage restrictions in public places and it seems every store now sells bottles of water or fancy re-usable bottles. Not only are re-fillable bottles everywhere, you can customize them to your interests, outfit and overall style. Some even encourage you on your water journey with reminders and tracking so you can keep up with your daily intake.
Aim for six to eight glasses of water each day, and try to limit sugary beverages that add empty calories. Staying hydrated supports overall health and can help you feel more alert and energized throughout the day.
Move Every Day
Daily movement doesn’t require a gym membership or personal trainer. Moving can be as simple as a walk around your neighborhood after dinner when the weather cooperates or a 20-minute stroll on a treadmill. Swimming, yoga and pilates are all low impact activities, but even taking the stairs as opposed to the elevator or stretching while sitting at your desk are improvements to a sedentary lifestyle.
You may think if you can’t dedicate an hour to your physical fitness, it’s not worth it. But remember, any movement is better than none—short bursts of activity still make a difference!
Make Sleep a Priority
After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season—family gatherings, celebrations, and late nights—sleep often becomes an afterthought. Start January by making rest a priority.
Adults should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine can help you fall asleep faster and improve your quality of sleep. Make sure your room is dark, a temperature you feel comfortable and avoid using screens at least an hour before bedtime. Everyone should find a relaxing routine that’s customized to their needs. Whether it’s a soothing bath, drinking a cup of warm tea or practicing bedtime meditation, find something that sets the right mood for getting quality sleep each night.
Incorporate More Plants & Whole Foods
Eating healthier doesn’t have to be intimidating. Even adding one fruit or vegetable to each meal can positively impact your health.
Incorporate fresh produce into recipes for a healthy addition. Mix vegetables like spinach or peas into a rice or pasta dish, or swap whole wheat pasta and brown rice instead of regular pasta and white rice. In general, the less processed a food is, the more nutritious it tends to be.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
The holidays can be stressful and emotionally draining, but starting the new year with a focus on mental health can make a meaningful difference. Journaling can be helpful to just get your thoughts on paper and out of your head. There is a sense of relief that comes from just getting whatever is bothering you off your chest. You can also start a gratitude journal to remind yourself of everything you have to be thankful for no matter the time of year. Downloading an app on your phone is helpful for meditation and teaches relaxing, breathing techniques. And, when the weather allows, spending time in nature is a great way to relieve stress, reconnect and improve your mental well-being.
While these tips are easy ways to start the year healthier, you can also reach out to your primary care physician (PCP) for more information and personalized advice. If you don’t have a PCP, Southwoods Health has a network across the Mahoning Valley with expert providers ready to help you start the new year on a healthier path. Visit SouthwoodsHealth.com/primary-care/ for more information.