New Year – New You!
Setting New Healthy Lifestyle Standards for Yourself.
It’s a new year and a wonderful opportunity and great time to set new healthy lifestyle standards for yourself. When it comes to setting New Year’s resolutions, odds are after a few months, old habits will rear their ugly head and you will find yourself back where you started. However, when you make the decision to not just set goals, but change the way you live your life, you may find yourself living your best life. One of the biggest challenges is the time of year, which makes motivation to get outdoors and exercise in cold weather very difficult. However, plenty of science will tell you the benefits of natural vitamin D and fresh air are numerous, ranging from boosting immunity to improving mental health especially during the shorter days of the season. Below are some ways to overcome the cold weather obstacles and adopt forms of exercise which take you out of the gym and into the fresh air. Hopefully, by the time warmer weather rolls around, you will be well on your way to a healthier you!
It may seem like common sense, but more times than not, it is overlooked, but the right gear is necessary. Investing in the proper attire makes all the difference in the world when it comes to overcoming the discomfort of cold and wet weather. There are plenty of options to suit your needs and places like Rock Creek Outfitters have knowledgeable staff and high quality options to get you started. If you are not interested in investing in high priced gear now or it is not in your budget, there are great options at big box type stores that will be more than adequate to get you through, especially in the mild weather areas in our great state of Tennessee. Once you have the proper clothing items, you are ready to get out in the fresh air and exercise.
If traditional walking or running just doesn’t do it for you, there are more adventure oriented exercise options to get your heart pumping. Hiking trails are in abundance from the Tri-cities to Chattanooga and offer winter hiking options from beginner to expert. There are plenty of natural wonders from icy mountaintops, to frozen waterfalls and fascinating wildlife to keep you interested and engaged. Challenge yourself and see how many Tennessee state parks you can visit in one year.
Canoeing or kayaking also offers a fresh look at exercising outdoors. With over 500,000 acres of freshwater lakes and 60,000 miles of rivers/streams in Tennessee, opportunities range from leisurely to expert. While there are many waterways worth exploring, two notable options are the Tennessee River Gorge and South Holston Lake. The Tennessee River Gorge runs through the heart of Chattanooga and offers spectacular tall bluff views. This dam controlled waterway provides an exhilarating paddling experience and opportunity to give your core and upper body a respectable workout. A great way to get your “feet wet” and familiarize yourself with the area is through guided tours. South Holston Lake ranks high on the list for it’s sapphire-colored waters, hidden waterfalls and is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Tennessee. Paddling the calm waters of the lake offers a gentler workout while also providing plenty of beautiful scenery to keep you engaged.
Lastly, biking is a great way to work in some aerobic time and channel your inner child. Whether it is hopping on the paved paths of your local parks and neighborhoods or tackling the rugged terrain of the mountains, there is no doubt the cold wind in your face and air in your lungs will give you a thrilling sense of freedom and adventure.
As with anything in life, finding the right balance is essential for success. By incorporating a healthy mix of outdoor activities, nourishing foods, and ample rest, you’re setting yourself up for a greater chance of achieving your goals. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family with similar goals and are committed to keeping you accountable. Most importantly, get ready to embrace the new and improved 2024 version of you!