It feels like every year that comes along, we all jump on board the train of New Year's resolutions. And one of the most popular resolutions is always to “be healthier”. But how many of us actually stick to this updated lifestyle? Whether its because “its too expensive to be healthy” or, “I am way too busy for all of that”, I bring to you some personal experience as well as tips and tricks on how to feel and look healthier.

1.Listen to your body

For years I struggled with acne. I tried everything to get rid of it, from different face washes, to countless dermatology appointments, and home remedies. I started to read up on my type of acne and realized that what I was putting into my body and even the chemicals I was using to cleanse my face could be the cause of my acne. Immediately I began using only natural skincare and eliminated dairy and meat from my diet. Within weeks, my acne had been alleviated and the scarring had began to heal. As time passed, I have realized that your body will always tell you when something is going on. So if you feel as if some sort of product is causing you to feel unlike yourself, or your body is simply acting up, DON’T IGNORE THE SIGNS. Evaluate the situation, and do whatever makes your body happy.

2. Diet on your terms

The word “diet” has the potential to instill such fear in people, but being on a regular diet doesn't have to be as strict as you would think. Let me put this plain and simple, I don't eat meat. Don't freak out, I am not deprived of the nutrients I need. However I am deprived of carcinogens I’d like to stay away from. Occasionally I will have fish, but for the most part I stick to fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and such. I made this switch because I like staying away from the hormones, and chemicals in meat today and also because as a UC Merced student, I love my cow friends too much. The first question I get is “Isn't that hard?” or “It’s too expensive to eat that way”. Wrong! It actually seems to be cheaper. Do you like salads? Go ahead and add some beans, avocado, and even tofu. Pasta sound good? Add more veggies to your sauce and grill some tofu to add on top. As time goes on, you become so accustomed, you’ll have 100 recipes in your head. If you're in a rush and don't have time to cook, or just want to go out and grab something to eat, I recommend Chipotle, their vegetarian options are amazing. Even Panera has tons of vegetarian options. Of course I am not expecting people to go vegetarian of course, but even limiting meat intake can make a huge difference; don't be opposed to trying something new!

3. Work out when you want to

If you can only work out two times a week, then work out two days a week. Don’t let people discourage you for only working out when your schedule allows you to. Working out should be complimentary to a solid healthy diet. Going to McDonalds, and having everything off the dollar menu and then going to the gym to work it all off is not ideal! Also, workout in ways you feel comfortable. Not all of us like lifting weights, or running on a treadmill. Sometimes it's Zumba, yoga, or even pole dancing that has us hooked. If you are exercising those muscles and having fun, you're on the right track.

4. Sometimes its okay to not be okay

I cannot emphasize how important our mental health is. You will be able to be a healthier you after making sure that you are mentally stable, and happy. Society deems those who feel better going to therapy. Therapy is not for mentally insane people. This is 2016, and believe it or not, normal people just like you and I go to therapy. From personal experience, therapy is awesome! Don’t feel ashamed to sometimes need help. We all have rough patches, overcoming them is what matters most. So go ahead and speak to that counselor or therapist, or whoever. Being not okay does not make you a bad person, it makes you human.

I hope y'all enjoyed my input on how to carry a “healthy” and or “healthier” lifestyle :).