Welcome to 2023 - another year full of new opportunities and growth! As we ring in the new year and look for ways to better ourselves, it's important to remember that we don't need to try to recreate ourselves altogether. The phrase "new year, new you" is outdated and unrealistic. Instead, let's work towards setting sustainable goals that will help us grow and evolve throughout 2023, and adopt new habits that will help our minds and bodies be as healthy as possible along the way. We have collected a few ways you can start enhancing your life now!
Daily Movement
We should all set a goal to get out and do more walking in 2023! We like to call our daily walks "hot girl" or "hot guy" walks! Getting out and taking a 10-minute walk during your day not only help your physical health but also boosts your energy levels and overall mood. Additionally, FSS provides so many ways to incorporate some movement into your routine.
Join any of
Outdoor Recreation's "Hike of the Month" trips for killer views and steps.
Breckland Pines is open for year-round golfing - so whether you're an expert at teeing up or new to the game, grab some friends and head out for a day on the course to stay active. The
Fitness & Sports Center offers a variety of free group fitness classes Monday through Friday for all fitness levels. Check out their schedule and embrace the strong and positive community this FSS facility provides.
Share with others
Tell your partner, friends, family, and co-workers your goals for 2023. By sharing your goals with those around you, you are letting them know your intentions and allowing for further conversations to take place around your goals. This shows that you are serious about them and creates an opportunity for your loved ones to check back in with you at a later date. This level of accountability is great for keeping you on track and allows others to celebrate your progress with you.
Drink your water
Water is key to keeping you functioning at your best. Do you have a headache? Drink water! Are you feeling hungry? Eat - and drink some water! Drowsy? Drink water! It is the substance that keeps our bodies happy, healthy, and hydrated! A good rule of thumb is to drink half of your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should drink 75 ounces of water throughout the day. Water has so many health benefits, including but not limited to aiding digestion, supporting organ function, and boosting your mood!
Work your most important muscle
Mental health is also essential! Your brain is just like any other muscle in your body. It needs to be exercised daily. Puzzles, reading, and brain games like sudoku are all great ways you can engage your brain! You can also exercise your brain by tapping into your creative side! The
Arts & Crafts Center offers a variety of classes each week like clay wheel throwing and ceramic plate painting. Check out all of the
types for January on page 24. You could also take it to another level and shop at the retail craft store to develop your DIY craft!
Everything in moderation
Eating healthier is something everyone can work on. We need to think of food as fuel for our bodies. When we fuel our bodies with chips, candy, and fried and processed foods, naturally we are going to feel tired, icky, and bloated. When we fuel our bodies with fresh fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and protein, we feel healthier, happier, and more energized. This doesn't mean you need to cut out all of your favorite foods, but rather treat yourself to those sweet or salty snacks in moderation. Make a point to treat yourself by going out with friends for a nice meal or social drink now and again, and then after you've indulged, jump right back into your routine. We love having a group lunch over at
the Bistro in the
Liberty Club.
Positive Self Talk
We can all practice gratitude by writing in a journal or verbally telling ourselves - and others - things we are grateful for each day. One easy way to practice this is by saying affirmations in the shower, bathroom mirror, or even to yourself in your car on your commute to work. Here are some of our favorite affirmations:
More Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are ways to get help. We have free resources to help you at RAF Lakenheath. The Military & Family Readiness Center has Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) available. Call to set an appointment at 01638 523847.
Here are some other RAF Lakenheath Resources:
- Samaritans Hotline - 116 123
- UK Hopeline- 0800 068 41 41
- SAPR 24/7 Hotline - 07809 603815
- SARC DSN - 01638 52 8070
- Mental Health - 01638 52 8603
- Family Advocacy - 01638 52 8070
- Domestic Abuse VA - 07490 038570
- MFLC - 07826 28 6432
- Equal Opportunity - 01638 52 2468
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