January 1st is technically just another day but for many it is an opportunity to take account of life and make New Year Resolutions. The #1 resolution is to lose weight followed by quitting a “bad habit” (like smoking) and so on. Time takes care of most resolutions one way of the other. But, if you are serious about accomplishing something positive in 2008 be sure to…….

Multiple resolutions- Think in terms of what areas of life you want to improve. It may be a goal for living healthier, improving relationships, growing intellectually or helping others. Your goal setting is about you and be sure to consider all aspects of your life that are important. And, it is not about giving up or pain, so put a positive spin on your resolutions. If you can be specific, all the better.

Take Baby Steps - If you do want to lose 50 lbs, think in terms of a pound a week or so much a month. You didn’t gain weight all at one time and you’ll only lose it in bits and pieces.

Charity - the ability to do for others, those not so random acts of kindness are what brings sunshine into lives - the recipient and the giver. In the 1995 Farmers’ Almanac we launched a Way To Go Campaign where we championed doing good deeds and heard lovely stories throughout the year. What can you do for your neighbor no matter where he or she lives? What are your passions?

This year we help you create a “Year of Wellness”. Working with Doctor Lisa Belisle, M.D., M.P.H. in Yarmouth Maine, we have 12 suggestions on ways to improve the quality of life. Albert Schweitzer once said, “I’ll tell you a secret. We doctors do nothing. We only help and encourage the doctor within”. How true it is about your attitude toward a healthier life. We suggest creating a personal plan and writing down your goals. Here is the January offering.

January - Body Basics

Wondering where to begin? Maintaining (or getting to) a healthy weight should be a top priority. Our bones and tissues are meant to support a predetermined number of pounds. When we carry too much weight, we experience joint pain and ailments such as diabetes and heart disease. Celebrate January’s Healthy Weight Week (January 20 - 26, 2008) by determining whether you are at your ideal: calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI), at www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi. Maintaining an ideal weight is made possible by a reasonable diet and adequate activity. Adequate activity consists of ore than a typical couch-to-refrig or office chair to water cooler commutes. It should include pastimes that improve your flexibility, strength and endurance. Keep track of your exercise success through the “Exercise Diary” at www.justmove.org.

Welcome in 2008 with optimism. Remember to enjoy friends and life. On our home page we ask if you are going to make a resolution. Take a moment to “vote”.

Happy New Year!!

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