Written By Hannah O’Shei, PNW Intern, Winter 2020

You probably aren't surprised to hear that one of the most common New Year’s Resolutions is weight loss. Even though this goal may be well-intentioned it’s rarely sustainable and can leave a person feeling out of control around food and ultimately defeated. This year let’s reframe how we think about health with these five New Year’s resolutions that have nothing to do with weight loss.

Be More Plant-Based

Thinking of starting a new diet? Think again. We know it’s important to eat healthy but you don’t need to start a new diet to do that. In fact dieting can lead to some unhealthy behaviors like obsessing over calories and binge-eating. Instead of starting a new diet or feeling pressured to become vegan overnight I recommend making more small, sustainable steps. Eating more plant-based foods can be a great way to increase your vegetables, fruit and fiber intake while saving animals and making a positive impact on the environment.

When going plant-based you don’t have to have an all or nothing mentality. If it’s more practical for you to stop eating meat on weekdays, or choosing non-dairy milk in your coffee then start with that! Everyone is different but in general long-term changes can only happen if you make your goals realistic and practical for your lifestyle. 

Here are some more ideas to start eating more plant-based:

1. Add beans or legumes to recipes in place of ground meat

2. Look up how to veganize one of your favorite meals

3. Prep veggies and fruit ahead of time for easy portable snacking throughout the day

4. Try a new vegan alternative each month. Next time you’re out shopping grab a non-dairy ice cream, cheese, or plant-based meat alternative you haven't tried before! It’s exciting to discover new foods. Plus, eating a mix of whole foods and fun-foods can make eating a more plant-based diet feel flexible.

Shop More Locally

Putting money into local businesses is just one thing we can do to lessen our carbon footprint, support our local economy, and uplift our community. If this pandemic has taught us anything it’s that we need to support the people around us. This resolution can be as simple as stopping at the farmer’s market once a week to pick up local veggies, or as big as only buying what you need from local or independent shops for a whole month (or year if you’re ambitious). Being more mindful about where you spend your money will help give you a new perspective. Maybe you’ll even start to realize that you don't need to buy as much stuff as you thought. 

Be More Sustainable

First, let’s talk about what sustainability means. To put it simply sustainability is the ability to exist constantly. There can be environmental, economic, and social sustainability. A more in depth definition would be to say that it means meeting our needs without compromising the ability of future generations. For example eating a more plant-based diet is more sustainable than supporting the meat industry. There are so many ways to be sustainable in your everyday life. 

Here are a few ideas on how to be more sustainable:

1. Start a compost bin - Composting helps to divert food waste from landfills which minimizes harmful greenhouse gas emissions. We may think that throwing away food doesn’t hurt the environment because it’s organic material but in reality rotting food releases methane gas into the atmosphere. This stylish compost bin is our favorite for any size kitchen.

2. Reduce single-use plastic- Plastic pollution is a real problem and unfortunately the pandemic has made it even harder to utilize things like reusable containers and bags. Many stores have banned them for the moment but there are other ways we can reduce our plastic waste. One idea is to always bring water and snacks when you go out, which will limit some of your need for buying single-use plastics. Another idea is to swap your household items like your typical shampoo and conditioner bottles with a low-waste shampoo and conditioner bar instead. There are so many awesome companies now that specialize in low-waste and plastic free goods!. Swapping some of your plastic items with a zero-waste option can help reduce your plastic waste substantially. Start small and make lasting changes. 

3. Shop second hand- Thrifting is a great way to be more sustainable. Buying clothing and other second hand items keeps them out of landfills which saves both energy and water. Another great thing about thrifting is that you can find some amazing things for a fraction of the price. Tip: Before I go to the thrift store I often like to make a list of items I need/want and then when I get there it’s easier for me to scope them out. If you don’t find what you want at first you can always try another thrift store or check back again in a week or month.

Bring More Mindfulness Into Your Day

Mindfulness is a way to stay in the present moment and be more aware of our actions and intentions. Practicing mindfulness can help with both mental and physical well-being which is so important right now. Creating a new year’s resolution around being more mindful can look many different ways so it all depends on what your goals are. 

Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Start a morning routine that is calming and enjoyable. Stretch, read a few pages of a book, go for a walk, have a cup of tea. Whatever feels good for you! Routines can help make us feel more grounded and give us the motivation to take action.

2. Join a virtual yoga or meditation class. Both yoga and meditation have been shown to improve mood and overall well being. These practices may benefit you if you are feeling stressed or anxious about the world around you. 

3. Start a journal. Many people swear by this! Keep a journal to write your thoughts, things you are grateful for, your goals, etc. 

Fun Exercise/Movement

Another popular new year’s resolution is to start a new exercise routine or get a gym membership. We all know how important exercise is for our health and how physical activity can boost our energy and mood but it can also be really hard to stick with. Why is that? Exercise is often associated with the goal of weight loss. For some, this can turn into something that makes us feel bad about ourselves and our body. If you want to stay active, the best way to do that is to find movement you truly enjoy and that doesn’t have you obsessing over your physical appearance. Do you enjoy hiking, swimming, playing frisbee, walking your dog, yoga, dancing or roller skating? You don't have to do the typical things like lifting weights or running 5 miles a day to be healthy! Experiment with different options to figure out what you truly enjoy doing for movement and try to have fun in the process.

Bottom Line

I hope this list has inspired you to start a new resolution or goal that isn’t centered around your body weight. Here is your reminder that you don’t need to change your physical appearance to be a happier and healthier version of yourself. And remember, if you do want to make lifestyle changes like the ones listed - start small, be practical, and do what makes you feel good!

Happy New Year!