“F” stands for Financial Strength, but for the New Year, we thought we’d delve into strength, pure and simple. Here are some tips for healthy living in 2024 from Anytime Fitness in Lewiston and Earth and Family Wellness:

The New Year is always a time for pause, reflection, and goal setting. Is this your year to focus on health? There are so many cliches out there: “New Year, New You!”, “You are what you eat!!!!” Don’t worry about the cliches but find what works for you. For example, you don’t need a fancy gym membership, or a lot of equipment to lose those pounds, just get up and move. Start out at an easy to moderate pace or level and build from there. It might seem appealing to start strong, but if you start out fast and/or heavy, you’re more apt to be sore and quit or injure yourself, and you won’t want to continue. If you don’t enjoy what you are doing, you won’t keep with it. There are so many videos and apps out there, find one you like and get moving. If you still need help and motivation, find a gym that works with you and gives you the help and support you need (see info below for options).

The key is this: you don’t need to make huge changes. Little incremental ones can have a lasting impact. Just like moving, being careful of what you bring into your home is also something you can do to support a positive lifestyle in 2024. Earth and Family Wellness hasbeen promoting good health for 31 years, specifically educating consumers about living chemical-free. Maybe this year isn’t about working out, but just buying cleaner products. Many people don’t realize that almost everything they buy from their local grocery store is made with chemicals, tested on animals, and often causes health problems for you, your family, and your pets. Earth and Family Wellness works with an Idaho-Falls based supplier so that all products are made in the USA, plant-based, and not tested on animals. Look at the labels on your lotions, potions, and products—more than you think are made in China or other places without strong consumer controls. One small change you can do is replace products from common brands like Proctor & Gamble, Lever Bros, Johnson & Johnson with ones that are chemical-free—check out www.earthandfamilywellness.net to see how. You can also opt for small, local vendors for soaps, canned goods, candles, and other items made right here in the Valley, or visit Eclips Salon and Spa for a sample of their organic skin-care options.

As noted in the Documentary “Live to 100,” what sets apart many centenarians is how they move, eat, and play in low-impact ways that cumulatively make a large difference over time. You don’t have to change everything tomorrow to make a difference! These small acts (a workout here or there, more activity built into the day, cutting a beverage or extra snack, or using natural products for your consumer needs) can turn into a healthy lifestyle plan. And if you are looking for a gym, Anytime Fitness on Thain is open 24/7 and has staff on site to help you reach your fitness goals. You will receive a personalized plan, the support from a community of like-minded peers, and freebies like 3 months of Apple + Fitness when you join.