5 Unusual New Year’s Resolutions You Should Make in 2019

Try one of these unusual - yet simple - New Year’s Resolutions for a healthy 2019.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, a lot of us would love to lose weight and get more sleep, but making the same broad resolutions year after year can put us in “neutral mode” when it comes to making an active change toward a healthier, happier life.

This year, try a resolution that’s outside of your comfort zone. Here are seven resolutions that will improve your mind, body, and spirit. The best part? Each one is small and pretty digestible – meaning it will take you less time to check a few of these off your list than that pesky “lose 10 pounds” goal you’ve been setting the past three years.

Healthy New Year’s Resolutions You Should Try

Try a New Food Each Month

It’s easy to get stuck in a food rut, especially when you’re pressed on time – and hungry! Make it a goal to try something new at least once a month, whether it’s picking up produce you’ve never had before (like those turnips you keep trucking past), or ordering a new appetizer or side dish the next time you’re out at a restaurant.

Smile at a Stranger Once a Week

Smiling is contagious, and making it a point to make more eye contact and smile at the person behind you in line at the coffee shop or on the elevator at work will boost both of your moods. (Bonus points if you make small talk while you wait for your order or on the way up to your floor, too!)

Take Control of Tooth Sensitivity

If you tend to avoid certain foods or drinks because of tooth sensitivity, managing the issue and enjoying those things again is actually easier than you think. First, switch out your toothbrush if you’re using hard bristles. The American Dental Association recommends that your toothbrush has soft bristles (instead of hard) to help minimize the risk of gingival abrasion or gum recession. Next, switch to a toothpaste that specializes in sensitivity relief like Sensodyne Rapid Relief Toothpaste, which helps to build a protective barrier over the sensitive spots in your teeth in just three days if you use it twice daily.

Teach Yourself Something You Wanted to Do as a Kid

Have you always wished you knew how to play the piano, or wanted to learn a new sport like tennis? Sign up for lessons! You’ll improve overall health by mastering a new skill, and grow your social circle by meeting new people along the way.

Read a Book Instead of Watching TV Before Bed

Light exposure (especially blue light – the type TVs emit) can mess up melatonin production, the hormone that helps you fall asleep. Turn off the tube and read for 10 minutes at night instead for more quality sleep in the new year.