Inspire Kids to Do™: Tips for a Healthier New Year

By Paige Henry January 03, 2020

With the new year approaching, many people tend to make new year resolutions focused on healthy eating and habits. The problem is that they forget them by February. As a dancer, it is very important to me to take care of my body, especially during performance seasons. It is imperative that I am doing the right things to keep my body strong. However, with me being a performer and an advanced academic student, I don’t have the time I need to exercise. I have to find ways to healthy that aren’t time-consuming. 

Here are three simple tips that keep me healthy.

  • The Most Important Meal of the Day: Between school, assignments, rehearsals, and performances, my time is limited. As an APAC (Academic and Performing Arts Complex) student, I am usually at school by 7:30 A.M., just in time for breakfast. However, I find myself skipping breakfast more times than I should. Skipping breakfast makes it harder for me to concentrate on my schoolwork or have the stamina to endure my rigorous early morning dance classes. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so I can’t afford to miss it. Meal prepping allows me to prepare a week’s worth of meals on Sunday night that I can grab and eat on my way to school each morning and at lunch. My favorite set of meals to prepare are overnight oats and salad in a jar. They are transportable, don’t need much refrigeration other than an ice pack and lunch bag, and cleanup is easy. Meal prepping has allowed me to get the nutrients I need to tackle my busy days.
  • Stay Hydrated: The human body is made up of approximately 60% water. Water is a vital entity in the overall function of the human body. Therefore it is vital to keep the body hydrated. The skin contains 64% water, and drinking water can assist in keeping your skin clear, giving you a radiant glow. Internally, water maintains the functions of your body. Water is a natural appetite suppressant. You may think you’re hungry when you’re actually just thirsty. Drinking water before grabbing something to eat can help curb unnecessary snacking, which can lead to weight loss. Also, water helps with workouts. It helps muscles, connective tissues, and joints to move correctly. Water also helps the lungs, heart, and other organs work effectively as they ramp up activity during exercise. To remind you to drink water, you can download one of the many apps available.
  • Meditation: Meditating is the perfect internal body cleanse. It can relieve stress and balance your body. Meditating lowers your heart rate, so it’s perfect for post-workouts. It also comes in handy when you find yourself in stressful situations. It’s a great way to cleanse your body of bad vibes.

The best way to attain your goal is to stay consistent. Staying consistent and following these tips would lead you to a happier and healthier life.