Fitness Resolutions for Every Body

What does a healthier lifestyle look like for you? Imagine it, and then set small, realistic, specific goals to get there. Here are a few ideas from Carolina Woman's editors:

Stretch and flex.

Extend your muscles through their entire range of motion. You don't have to become a yoga master. Grab a moment to stretch at your desk, in your car or in front of the TV.

Breathe.

Use your breath to relax and unwind.

Keep a fitness journal.

Take a few minutes at the
end of the day to jot down what you did, when you did it and how you feel.

Enjoy exercise.

Walk with a friend. Take a dance class. Engage in activities you love.

Step it up.

Always take the stairs. This simple, everyday action can get your legs working and your heart pumping.

Get everyone involved.

You don't have to take time away from your family to work out. Enhance relationships with them by participating together in healthy, fun activities.

Eat with awareness.

Savor every bite. Keep a food journal and write down the food and drinks you take in each day. Diets may not work, but acknowledging how much you consume may lead you to better habits.

Make over your kitchen.

Start with a clean slate. Restock with foods that will make you feel good: veggies, fruit, lean meats, whole-grain products and low-fat dairy items.

Wash Your Hands!

Did you know that 1 million deaths could be prevented each year if every individual washed her hands properly? It takes at least 15 to 20 seconds (sing "Happy Birthday" twice) of vigorous hand washing with soap and water to remove enough of the harmful bacteria that spreads disease. Studies have shown that diarrheal illnesses can be reduced by 50 percent and respiratory illnesses by 20 percent simply by energetic scrubbing.

Skin-Deep Beauty Tips

Winter in the Triangle is not nearly as harsh as in other parts of the country. Even so, we still get cold temperatures plus wind outside and heat inside, and we still need to protect our skin.

Slather on sunscreen even in winter. Use one with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or more that is "broad spectrum," meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB radiation.

Choose a moisturizing sunscreen that contains lanolin or glycerin. Apply it to all exposed skin, especially the face. Every time you put it on, also use lip balm with an SPF of 15 or above.

Keep applying moisturizer, especially paying attention to the skin around your eyes; that area is particularly susceptible to trouble in cold, dry weather.