|
Resolving to make changes for the new year
by Eve Meinhardt
Paraglide
People from all walks of life across the United States make resolutions vowing to do things better as the calendar changes. We promise to lose weight, stop spending so much, quit smoking, volunteer more or go back to school. In some cases, we succeed in keeping our vows. Often we hit the ground running and after a few days, weeks or months of change, we revert back to our old ways and habits.
Whatever your New Year’s resolution may be, adopting a healthier lifestyle is one that can not only help you achieve some of the promises you made entering 2010, but can possibly help you live longer to make future resolutions.
As many of us lead a more sedentary lifestyle than those of years past, getting up and moving around is one of the easiest ways to feel better and live healthier. You don’t have to start training for a marathon, although that is a noble goal, going for a walk is an easy way to start.
In a poll of the Paraglide’s Facebook friends, many suggested enjoying the outdoors more as an option. Melody Vealey Foote offered a list of some of the many trails in the local area. Walkers can visit the Cape River Trails, the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, the Cross Creek Linear Park, Lake Rim Park and the trail surrounding Hope Mills Park.
Smith Lake offers a variety of trails to walk, as well as horseback riding, mountain bike trails, volleyball and basketball courts, paintball and swimming. The lake also provides an easy place to use items available for rent from Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s Recreation Equipment Checkout Center. The checkout center rents horseshoe and croquet sets, bicycles, tug-of-war ropes, canoes, kayaks and more.
With the weather being a little chilly, there are a variety of options to lead a healthier lifestyle indoors, as well. Deborah Prinat, another Paraglide Facebook friend, suggests enrolling in a belly dancing class.
“It’s a fun way to get in shape and learn an art form,” said Prinat.
Shawn Novak Clark said yoga is also a good option.
“It’s very calming for the soul,” said Clark.
On Fort Bragg, there are 11 physical fitness centers available for use by Soldiers and their Families offering weight lifting equipment, treadmills, stair climbers and more without the hassle and expense of membership fees. There are running trails and tracks across post as well as indoor and outdoor pools.
For a complete list of Fort Bragg’s recreation and sports offerings, visit the FMWR Web site at www.fortbraggmwr.com.
Adding physical activity isn’t the only way to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Changing eating and drinking habits can make a world of difference in your energy levels and the extra weight you may be carrying around. A simple search on the Internet will offer a variety of smarter food options, ways to cook your favorite foods better and even the healthier fast food options available for those on the go.
Facebook friend Debbie Peevyhouse suggested portion control in addition to walking as a good way to stay healthy and fit.
A visit to your primary care provider can help you get started in the right direction, especially if you are increasing your physical activity level. Talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have and the activities you plan to begin.
A link on Womack Army Medical Center’s Web site at www.wamc.amedd.army.mil, under “Health Readiness” leads you to a site you can personalize to develop a workout and meal plan. The site gives tips and advice on not only bettering your health, but also the health of your Family.
No matter what your goals are for the new year, leading a healthier lifestyle can only help you achieve them. The help is all around, you just need to take the first step and commit to change.
|
|
