One Month at a Time: A Smarter Way to Keep Your Resolutions
Start 2026 by setting monthly health goals you can reach, making this your healthiest year so far.
Get set, go January
Begin the year by seeing your primary care provider for basic screenings like blood pressure, BMI, and blood tests. They will also review your medical history and vaccinations. If you need a provider, you can find one here. Your provider can help you set realistic health goals for 2026 based on your history and past results.
Heart February
Get to know the signs of a heart attack and calculate your risk so you can stop heart disease in its tracks. While you’re studying up, make a few lifestyle changes that could lower your risk of heart disease, too.
Bottoms up in March
Begin National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by eating more fiber and less fatty meat. Both actions have shown a correlation with cancer reduction, including colon cancer. If you are over 40 or have specific risk factors, talk to your primary care provider about scheduling a colonoscopy.
Spring into April Group Fitness
Join a group class, find a workout partner, or inquire with your workplace or insurance company about wellness incentives. Staying accountable to a workout partner or plan has been shown to improve fitness levels and keep participants active longer. If you prefer a bit of guidance, join a fitness center or meet with a personal trainer.
Assess your risk in May
May is Stroke Awareness Month. Know the signs of stroke and your risk factors. You can prevent stroke (and other major diseases) by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking.
Avoid the June Burn
Kick off the summer months with a skin cancer check at your physician’s office. Be sure to cover up with a hat and long-sleeved clothing year-round if you’re in the sun and use at least SPF 30 sunscreen.
Make a Splash in July
Set the summer intention to cool off with at least 64 ounces (about 1.89 L) of water per day. Staying hydrated can reduce the risk of heatstroke, and some studies have even shown that water intake can help with weight loss. Replenishing your fluids also helps you feel fuller.
Get into a Routine in August
The school year is starting, and many families are getting back on schedule. Now is a wonderful time to do a self-check. How is your health regimen going? Are you making healthy changes to your routine? Have you cut unhealthy foods or have you added movement? Refocus on your goals just in time for a new school year.
It is Worth a Shot in September
The vaccinations you received in childhood may not be protecting you anymore. It is important to get a yearly flu vaccine and to stay updated on vaccines like tetanus, shingles, pneumonia, and others – particularly as you age. Many workplaces and community centers offer vaccination clinics. Check with your health care provider for vaccinations you may need.
Think pink (and blue) in October
It is no cliché. If you are over 40 or have risk factors, scheduling a mammogram could truly be the best thing you do for your health this year. If you are male and over the age of 50, consider getting your prostate gland examined. However, these are not the only important screenings for adults. Check out a full list of recommended screenings by age:
Quit in November
Do you have any lingering habits that may be bad for your health? If you smoke, consider quitting smoking. And if you are a current or former smoker, consider also getting a lung screening. This simple screening can detect cancer and other concerns early when they are most easily treated. If smoking is not your habit, look at your health and consider quitting (or reducing) alcohol, calories or fat intake.
De-stress in December
The holidays can be full of stressors, so take some time for yourself. Focus on exercise and healthful versions of your favorite indulgences to keep the stress at bay. Focus on a few small changes and mental health strategies to keep the holidays and beyond healthy. And while you are at it, treat yourself to a tai chi or yoga session.
Check out the latest ways to stay healthy at https://chesapeakeregional.com/blog.
