LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 13, 2025) – The new year is underway, making it an ideal time to embrace healthy habits that can transform your overall well-being. CHI Saint Joseph Health encourages people to prioritize their health in 2025 by focusing on four key areas: diet, exercise, sleep, and mental health.
“Good health begins with small, consistent changes,” said Salem Hanna, MD, CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group – Internal Medicine, on Fountain Court. “When you invest in habits that nurture your body and mind, you’re setting yourself up for a more vibrant and fulfilling year.”
Nutrition for Energy and Wellness
A well-balanced diet provides the foundation for good health, so it’s important to incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains into your meals. In 2025, make simple swaps to benefit your diet, like choosing whole-grain bread over white or adding an extra serving of vegetables to dinner. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to support your body’s daily functions.
The Importance of Staying Active
Exercise isn’t just about weight management – it’s essential for physical and mental health. Activities like walking, dancing or yoga improve cardiovascular health, boost energy and reduce stress. Consistency matters more than intensity when starting out, so aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days.
Prioritizing Quality Sleep
Sleep is often overlooked but plays a vital role in maintaining health. To promote restful sleep, it’s important to develop a bedtime routine. Turn off screens at least an hour before bed, keep your bedroom dark and quiet, and aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Sleep is when your body repairs and regenerates, making it a critical part of any wellness plan.
Caring for Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and journaling can help reduce stress and improve emotional resilience. Seek support when needed, whether by talking to a friend, joining a support group, or working with a counselor. Taking care of your mental health helps you to better navigate life’s challenges.
“Building a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” said Dr. Hanna. “Focus on small, achievable changes in your diet, activity levels, sleep and self-care. Over time, these habits will add up to a healthier, happier you.”
It’s important to kick off the new year by scheduling your annual appointment with your health care provider. Regular check-ups are a cornerstone of preventive care, allowing your provider to monitor your overall health, catch potential issues early, and offer personalized recommendations to help you meet your wellness goals. Whether reviewing your diet, exercise routine, sleep habits, or mental health, your provider can help you stay on track and support you in making 2025 your healthiest year yet.
To find a provider near you, visit https://www.chisaintjosephhealth.org/find-a-provider.
About CHI Saint Joseph Health
CHI Saint Joseph Health, a member of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 100 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes, home health agencies and an ambulatory Care Center. The hospitals in CHI Saint Joseph Health are Flaget Memorial Hospital, Saint Joseph Berea, Saint Joseph East, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine, Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, and Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. CHI Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to providing a wide array of services toward a goal of building a healthier future for all. CHI Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.
About the CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group
CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group is the employed provider network of CHI Saint Joseph Health with 88 locations in 17 communities throughout central and eastern Kentucky.
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