Page 16 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • December 12, 2012 A new year brings opportunity (continued from previous page) whole foods something you will enjoy. Add more exercise. It’s not unusual for a person to drive from a desk job to the drive-through at a fast food restaurant, and then go directly to the couch to watch television. It isn’t surprising that lack of exercise is an issue for many Americans, and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to a number of health concerns, regardless of weight. Incorporating exercise into a daily routine is important and can have many health benefits. To begin living a more active lifestyle, experts recommend starting slowly and building up length and intensity of physical activity. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of exercise; use the stairs, go for a walk, take a bike ride, or play with your dog or children to get moving and start looking and feeling better. Rest up. Although jam-packed schedules make it seem like there aren’t enough hours in the day, it’s extremely important to set aside enough time to rest and recharge. Getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night allows for optimal mental and physical performance, and making sleep a priority can have significant impact on overall well-being. To enjoy the many benefits adequate sleep offers, adopt a bedtime routine at the same time each night. Avoid food and drink for 30 minutes prior to going to sleep, and stay away from computers, televisions and other screens. Instead, enjoy a relaxing activity, such as reading or meditating, to help you fall asleep. De-stress daily. Stress can cause many mental, emotional, and physical health issues, and long periods of high stress can have debilitating effects. To avoid lasting health problems, learn to recognize stress and how to deal with it effectively. Despite your busy schedule, making time for yourself each day is important and can help you avoid severe stress problems. Whether it is taking a walk, playing an instrument, practicing yoga, or even calling an old friend, do something you enjoy every day. It’s also important to make sure you are getting enough exercise, sleep, and proper nutrition to help your body deal with the physical effects of stress. With a few adjustments to your daily activities, you can look forward to a happy, healthy 2013 and beyond.