The holidays are a season of indulgence ― sipping many festive drinks, scarfing down treats and loading our plates with incredible food. That’s what the days are all about.
But a new year is a great time to hit reset and place the focus back on smart habits that not only make you feel good but also prolong your life. If you want to focus on longevity in the coming year, here are a few resolutions to make:
1. Give a sober month a try.
Recent data has not worked out in alcohol’s favor. The World Health Organization has stated that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for our health.” Perhaps it’s worth considering starting your new year off with a booze break by trying Dry January. It’s a good time to tune in to your body and see how you feel without drinking ― and it just may inspire you to become more of a mindful drinker in the future.
2. Try a new wellness habit.
Acupuncture, sound baths, cold plunging … these alternative treatments might seem “out there,” but there is some scientific support for these trends (the ones doctors and people with medical certifications are talking about, of course ― not the crazy things that influencers are DIYing on TikTok).
Jumping in a pool of icy water, for instance, has been linked to improved mental health and resilience to stress. Singing-bowl sound healing may reduce tension and ease symptoms of depression. And acupuncture, which is constantly being studied, has shown promise in everything from reducing allergies to boosting fertility. Give one of these some consideration and talk to your doctor about it.
3. Schedule more social time.
Perhaps your idea of unwinding is takeout on your couch, which is great. But in 2025, make a point to get back to your social life, too.
“Maintaining strong social connections is a critical determinant of longevity,” said Shoshana Ungerleider, a board-certified internal medicine physician and producer and host of the “Before We Go” and “TED Health” podcasts.
Research suggests that loneliness and social isolation have health effects comparable to those of smoking 15 cigarettes per day. “Meaningful relationships with family, friends and community members foster emotional support and a sense of belonging, which are integral to both mental and physical health,” Ungerleider said.
4. Make gratitude more of a priority.
Inflation, politics, work stress… There may be plenty to complain about, but when is the last time you made a point to focus on what…
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