Somehow, the usual healthy resolutions don’t cut it for me this year. Eat five servings of produce daily? Check (most days). Walk everywhere I can? Check. Find time to stop, decompress, reflect? If a weekly moment en route to the grocery store counts, check that off, too. So as 2008 wraps up, I want to share a few tips from this issue that I know I’ll be using in the new year to make my life better all around. I hope they’ll do the same for yours.
1. Find My Magic Calorie Number It’s not January without a “diet” resolution, and our special report, “Weight Loss University” (p. 122), details the philosophies behind some of our country’s leading academic weight loss programs. Here’s my favorite strategy: Find out how many calories you really need! What could be a simpler way to take the mystery and frustration out of losing weight? Go to prevention/caloriecounter to learn what your optimal calorie level should be.
2. Spot the Health Food Impostors This year, I’m determined not to nosh on the dozens of so-called health foods that have very little nutritional value (especially those that pack in fat and calories while making “diet” claims). Find out what to avoid–and great options to try instead–on p. 72.
3. Reach Any Goal by Living a Little Despite pop culture notions (Just Do It!), science now proves that willpower has its limitations. Brain chemistry, hormones, and other physiological factors also affect your ability to tough it out on the treadmill. Here’s the good news: The solution is to tackle one goal at a time and not deprive yourself too much. We explain how in “Use Your Willpower Wisely” on p. 108.
4. Heal with the Mind Meditation is truly powerful stuff, and we’ve got the research to prove it. Find out how it can help you ease pain, boost your memory, even improve your marriage, on p. 42. (Don’t worry–we also tell you HOW to meditate. I’m finally inspired to sit still during the last 5 minutes of yoga class.) Here’s to your healthy and happy new year!
