As the new year begins, now is the perfect time to make a plan for a healthier 2026. Healthy habits don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Even small changes can make a big difference.

Here are 6 tips to help you be healthier in 2026:

1. Get Active:

   Try to move more and sit less. Aim for about 150 minutes of exercise each week. Exercise doesn’t have to be long workouts at the gym. Find options that fit into your life, such as taking the stairs or going on brief walking breaks throughout your workday. Find fun ways to be active, like walking, biking, yoga, dancing, or even playing ball outside with your kids. Activities that fit into your life and are enjoyable will be the most sustainable over time.

2. Eat Well:

   Eating a nutritious diet gives your body the energy it needs to function well. It also helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Eat more foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Swap sugary drinks for water and stay hydrated.

3. Build a strong community:

   Strong social connections can reduce the risk of chronic disease and serious illness, and improve the ability to manage stress, healthy eating habits, physical activity, and sleep quality. Engage with your community and those around you. Spend time with friends and family or join a local club. Check in on your elderly neighbors and those you think might be feeling lonely.

4. Schedule Screenings:

   Preventative care, including annual checkups and routine screenings, is one of the best ways to take care of your health. Keeping up with these appointments allows potential health concerns to be identified earlier, when they are often easier to treat. Don’t put off getting care. Visit your doctor and dentist for regular checkups and screenings.

5. Quit Smoking:

   Now is a good time to quit bad habits. Smoking and vaping can have a serious impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing. Quitting can be challenging, but there are resources that can help. Quit Now Virginia is a free service that helps people quit smoking, using tobacco, or vaping. Visit Quit Now Virginia to learn more.

6. Stay informed:

   It’s important to be aware of what is going on in our community. You may want to know if respiratory illness levels are high so you can take the appropriate preventions. You may want to know if a rabid racoon was found in your neighborhood and what you should do if you come in contact with the animal. Or you may want to know about interesting community events. Keep up with all this and more by subscribing to the Public Health in Action (PHIA) monthly e-newsletter. Click to subscribe.

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