Achievable New Year Resolutions for 2016

This year, instead of making big sweeping resolution statements like “I’m going to lose 30kg” or “I’m going to run a marathon”, break your goals down into things that are A) more achievable and B) less daunting. The outcome might be still achieving the big goals , but by making small resolutions that will ultimately contribute to your success in the long run, you’ll be more likely to see them through. Here’s a few that we like the sound of, which can create real, tangible change in your daily life:

Resolution #1: Get more sleep

In the modern world, getting enough sleep is a problem. Sleep is the body’s chance to repair and regenerate all the cells in the body. A lack of sleep not only leaves us with dark circles under the eyes, but long-term effects of sleep deprivation can include much more serious health consequences. Your clever body regulates sleep with a hormone called melatonin, which lets us know when to sleep and when to wake. Unfortunately, with things like excess caffeine, late nights and shift work, this cycle can easily get out of whack. The good news is there are many things you can do to reset the clock: 

• Try to go to bed and wake up at about the same time every day to help your body establish a sleep cycle. It may take a few weeks for your body to adjust, but it will be worth it.
• Avoid caffeine after 3pm.
• Remain as active as possible during the day – take the stairs, not the lift!
• Have a hot bath and a warm cup of milk or chamomile tea to relax before bed. 
• If all else fails, supplementing with 5HTP can be helpful in building up your melatonin levels. 

Resolution #2: Drink more water (or try coconut water)

It doesn’t seem that hard, does it? The more hydrated you are, the better your body works, carrying vital nutrients and waste substances in and out of the cells more efficiently. You don’t just have to drink water either: herbal teas are a great option (hot or cold), and then of course, there’s coconut water. It’s all the rage in the health world right now, and for good reason. Not only does coconut water taste great but it is rich in electrolytes and minerals (especially potassium).

Resolution #3: Eat (and enjoy) a healthy diet

Getting the right nutrients is important for your overall health. Consuming at least five or more servings of fresh fruit and vegetables a day as well as enough protein, healthy fats, and wholegrains ensures your body is getting enough vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to remain healthy and prevent premature aging. Eat lots of foods high in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E. Vitamin A is found in orange coloured vegetables and fruit, as well as dark green leafy veggies; vitamin C is in most fruits and vitamin E is mostly found in nuts and seeds. Check out these superfood recipes for some more inspiration. 

Resolution #4: Stress less

Easier said than done, right? It’s true, stress is an inevitable part of life, but it’s how you tackle it that can make all the difference. A great place to start is to identify what it is that stresses you out (a person, your job, your schedule), then make a plan for how to deal with it. Stress has a terrible effect on the mind and the body, and has been directly linked to problems with the gut in particular. When we are stressed we produce less digestive enzymes to break down food, altering the speed of our digestion, causing constipation or diarrhea. Experiment with different de-stressing techniques to see what works for you. It could be yoga, meditation, a hot bath, a cup of tea, talking it out with a friend, an adult colouring book – everyone is different, but once you find what works for you, you’ll have the tools you need to tackle anything.

Resolution #5: Move more

Increasing your heart rate through exercise is one of the best things you can do for your body. It improves blood flow, sending oxygen to your skin and muscles and encourages the removal of waste from cells, which is eliminated through sweat. Working out also helps to reduce stress levels, especially exercising outdoors in the fresh air, which is good for the mind. It can be easier to stick to an exercise plan if you have a partner in crime, so grab a friend to help with motivation and get active! Make small changes that will go a long way – if you are sitting down most of the day, get up and go for a walk or have a stretch at least every hour.

Resolution #6: Breathe

Yup, breathe. You do it all day, every day, so why not make it worthwhile? There are simple, breathing techniques that can have remarkable effects on your body. Not many of us realise just how important breathing correctly is, but it helps maintain the right amount of oxygen for energy, sustains the correct pH levels in the body, and ensures there’s enough carbon dioxide for bodily functions. There are plenty of breathing tips online, check some out here and watch your energy levels soar.



The summer break is your chance to relax, recuperate and prepare yourself for the year ahead. Big, daunting new year resolutions can really kill the mood during a time that should be restful. It’s important to set goals that are achievable and most importantly, inspirational. Yes, we all want to better ourselves, but remember, you are human. You can achieve incredible things if you just give yourself the means to do so.