It’s easy to kick off January with enthusiasm, but for most of us, those new habits tend to disappear by February. The good news? With a few thoughtful strategies, healthy routines can become part of your life year-round. Colorado is known as the second healthiest state in the U.S. This means most people you know will have some health-related resolution. Don't get left behind. Here are 7 habits to start in the new year and how to make them last.

1. A 10-Minute Morning Movement Routine

• What it is: Light stretching, yoga, or a short walk right after waking. Check out the yoga and spin room in your Camden community gym!

• Why it works: Boosts energy, reduces stiffness, improves mood.

• How to make it stick: Lay out your workout clothes the night before. Keep the routine short and consistent. Consistency > Intensity.

Photo Courtesy of Camden Lincoln Station

2. Daily “Micro-Moment” Meditation (1–3 minutes)

• What it is: Tiny pauses for breathing or grounding during the day.

• Why it works: Even very short meditations lower stress and blood pressure.

• How to make it stick: Attach it to triggers: after meals, opening your laptop, or brushing teeth. Use a timer or an app that sends gentle reminders to keep you on track.

3. 30-Minute Screen-Free Wind-Down

• What it is: No phones or screens 30 minutes before bed.

• Why it works: Reduces cortisol, improves sleep quality.

• How to make it stick: Plug your phone in outside the bedroom. Replace the habit with something enjoyable like reading, stretching, or journaling.

4. A Daily “Nourish Plate”

• What it is: Aim for at least 2 colors of vegetables and 1 source of protein in one meal per day.

• Why it works: Easy, flexible, and dramatically improves nutrition.

• How to make it stick: Choose one meal (e.g., lunch) as your “nourish meal.” Prep colorful veggies once a week.

Photo Courtesy of Ella Olsson from Pexels

5. A Weekly 20-Minute Planning Session

• What it is: On Sunday, take 20 minutes to map meals, workouts, and priorities.

• Why it works: Reduces stress and decision fatigue; massively boosts follow-through.

• How to make it stick: Tie it to a ritual you enjoy, like coffee, tea, or a specific chair on your patio. Use a simple template so you don’t rethink the process each week.

6. A Hydration Habit

• What it is: Start the day with one glass of water and carry a bottle.

• Why it works: Supports energy, digestion, and focus.

• How to make it stick: Keep a full water bottle in your main workspace. Get a cute water bottle that you want to carry around with you. Use habit stacking. Ex: drink a glass of water when you wake up.

Photo Courtesy of by Alex Azabache from Pexels

7. A “Stop at 80% Full” Eating Practice

• What it is: Pause mid-meal; if you’re satisfied, save the rest.

• Why it works: Helps with mindful eating and digestion. Doesn’t leave you feeling heavy and sluggish after a meal.

• How to make it stick: Eat slower, put down utensils between bites. Set a rule: pause for 10 seconds halfway through the meal.

As you step into the new year, remember that lasting change comes from steady, everyday actions. Choose a few habits that resonate with you and commit to showing up, even in small ways. With patience and consistency, these habits can become a natural part of your life.

Need a few other ideas? Here are some New Year’s resolutions that can help you transform your apartment into a place that you’ll love coming home to.