The New Year is a time for new beginnings. Try setting goals that are attainable and easy to sustain, and you'll be pleasantly surprised to find how small changes can lead to a big difference over the course of the year.
At the Somerset Valley YMCA, we see how things such as getting involved in the community and making key lifestyle changes drastically improve lives. Here are the five New Year’s Resolutions we recommend for 2014:
1. Eat Healthy: Make water your drink of choice (supplemented by age-appropriate portions of 100 percent fruit juices and low-fat milk), and eat more fruits and vegetables. Keep it interesting by trying these frozen fruit recipes for dessert: http://rethinksimple.com/recipes/frozen-fruit-treats/
Find out what's happening in Bridgewaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
2. Commit to Community Service: Giving back benefits everyone. Not only is it personally rewarding to help others in need, but it’s also a way to meet new people and discover new interests. Find an opportunity in your community such as cleaning the neighborhood park or donating food to a local food bank, and get involved!
3. Unplug from Technology: Limit screen time (television, video games, computer, etc.). Set aside an hour or two every day for other activities such as going for a walk or having a game night at home with family and friends.
Find out what's happening in Bridgewaterfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
4. Be Physically Active: It’s important for children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day (30 minutes for adults). Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and spend more time walking instead of driving to improve your health and well-being.
5. Put Extras to Good Use: Do you have extra canned goods or clothes that could benefit those in need? Clean out your pantry, closet or attic, and donate extra items to homeless shelters or community outreach programs.
“At the Y, we are committed to strengthening communities and believe this begins with strengthening the people of our community,” said Valerie Giacopelli, Executive Branch Director, Hillsborough Family YMCA. “Setting a goal to achieve any one of the Y’s recommended five New Year’s Resolutions can help improve one’s health and well-being.”
For additional tips or to learn more about how to get involved with the Somerset Valley YMCA, contact 908-722-4567 or visit ymcasomersetvalley.org.
