2013 Resolutions

It is that time of year already. 2012 is gone, and 2013 is here…another revolution around the sun. In the spirit of renewal, restarting, or just trying something new this year, I have put together a list of resolutions you could try. Maybe doing something from this list will jump start your health in 2013. Enjoy.

1. Try one natural health care option. Get adjusted by a chiropractor. If you already do that, try acupuncture, herbal remedies, reflexology…introduce a new way to be healthy without drugs or surgery.

2. Spend one afternoon a week with just your family—no distractions, no cell phones. Maybe work on a long-term project together or several small projects.

3. Replace one meal a day with a green salad.

4. Learn one new skill this year. Try knitting, skiing, whitewater boating; the sky is the limit.

5. Take one trip to a place you have never been. If you have money saved up, try somewhere exotic. If you are on a budget, visit one of the many historic sites close to home. East Tennessee is full of great history and beautiful scenery—most of it accessible with just the cost of gas in your car.

6. Turn off your cell phone for one whole day! It might become addicting. No texting, no updates, no calls, no games…you will be surprised at your clarity of mind without digital distraction.

7. Do one thing that scares you. Ask your boss for a promotion, start a business, or maybe just get a wild haircut. You could combine this resolution with number four…

8. Resolve to cook more meals at home, from whole ingredients. Removing artificial flavor enhancers and preservatives from your family’s food will bring a host of benefits like better health and more time eating meals together. This might save you some money, too.

9. Go see some local music. East Tennessee is the birthplace of hundreds of amazing musicians of all genres. There is a regular music schedule right here in Rogersville at the Burger Bar. The Jimmy Martin MusicFestival is a yearly event in Hancock County. The bigger cities, just a drive on the interstate away, have weekly acts.

10. Recognize just one fault and try to fix it. I will be working on patience. I am chronically impatient.

Every day is a new day. That sounds like New Age junk, but it is not wrong. You do not need a new number on a calendar to make a difference in your life and the lives of others.