Start Your New Year's Resolutions Before January 1st

With 2006 nearly complete and 2007 upcoming, why wait until January 1st to begin those annual New Year's resolutions to benefit your health and the lives of others around you? While 2007 is still weeks away, here are some health tips that you can use not only as resolutions for next year, but hopefully, for a lifetime, starting now:
· Get More Sleep. Make it a goal to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep on a regular basis. That takes some juggling of your daily activities between school, job, sports, family commitments, etc., however, if you make an effort, more sleep will benefit your physical and emotional health (including your attitude and outlook). An article in the February 20, 2001 issue of Family Circle magazine mentioned, "Getting a good night's sleep may actually help you live longer and more happily."

· Be A Good Listener. According to Bottom Line.com, "Several university studies have found that people who interrupt conversations are at greater risk for heart problems. In fact, one study at Duke University found that people who interrupt are up to 7 times more likely to get heart disease." Bottom Line.com cites researchers who theorize that those who interrupt are usually "excessively competitive and controlling - 2 hallmarks of the worst 'Type A' personalities" at higher risk for heart disease.

· Walk More Often And Drink More Water. High on many New Year resolution lists are dietary changes and exercise. Well, don't wait until January. Fitness professionals say you can get a jump on the holiday party foods and excess calories in the next few weeks by walking more and drinking more water. Try to fit in a 15-minute non-stop walk every day before January 1 to rev up your metabolism and also substitute water for soda (which has more calories).