Top 10 Resolutions for a Healthier 2010

We are well into January 2010, and it's time to take a fresh look at the resolutions we made for the year. If you didn't make at least a few that are aimed at improving your health, you really ought to go back and take another stab at it. After all, how can you have a truly happy new year if you're not in shape to deal with it?

Just to get you started, here are what I believe should be the top 10 health-related resolutions for 2010.

Get in shape. If you're always tired, can't seem to lift anything heavier than the TV remote, and just aren't able to keep up with your friends, you might want to consider an exercise program. Just 20 minutes of stretching and aerobics in the morning will make a big difference in how you feel. But, if you want to really buff up, get into an active program. You can do it at home with little equipment or space required; and to really work that body into shape, thinks about a membership in your nearest health club.

Trim the fat. Unless you have the gaunt body of a fashion model, like most of us, you could probably stand to lose a few pounds. It's especially important to reduce belly fat in order to reduce the strain on your lower back and ankles.

Put out that cigarette. This really needs no explanation. Tons of studies have shown that smoking is not only hazardous to your health, but your secondhand smoke harms those around you. In addition, cigarette smoking is a nasty habit.

Have a healthier diet. We have in America an epidemic of obesity. Everyone, from young to old, is too fat. Lack of exercise is one cause, but a far greater reason we are so rotund is that we don't eat proper foods. Cut down on the fats, and replace them with fruits, vegetables, and nuts. It will help you keep your resolution to lose weight, and give you a healthier heart.

Reduce stress. Excess stress causes many other maladies, gives us a bad attitude, and in general is just not good for health. Try meditation on a daily basis; count to ten and then forget it when someone or something bugs you.

Get a pet. People with pets are happier and healthy on average than those without. Taking care of a pet, playing with it, and being on the receiving end of its love and affection can do wonders for your own health. If that pet happens to be a dog, taking it out a couple of times a day for its 'business,' or playing with it can help you with that resolution to keep fit.

Work on improving close relationships. Having a support network of close friends and family will help you with reducing stress. If you do a good job on this one, they can also help keep you on track with your other resolutions.

Go back to school. A healthy mind helps keep you focused on having a healthier body, and being around students can rejuvenate you. If nothing else, you will be motivated to try and keep up with your younger classmates.

Reduce or eliminate debt. You might be wondering what this has to do with health. A heavy load of debt can really crank up stress levels, and it doesn't leave you much cash to deal with unforeseen health emergencies. Cut down on credit card spending and pay off as many of your debts as you can, and see if you don't feel a whole lot better.

Reduce alcohol consumption. A small daily drink can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Too much not only makes you look and act like a slob, but it can increase weight, increase risk of heart and liver disease, and just generally damage your health.