JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024
Health & Wellness with
Smile Park Dental
Affordable, Innovative, Oral Health Care
Weddings on the water Venue in Annapolis
Resolutions for the New Year from Business Owners
Pack Your Bags ...
Where to Go in 2024
FULL SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES Tailored Specifically for You Custom Furniture | Custom Area Rugs Custom Window Treatments
We Listen. Beautiful Happens. Contact Us Krista Shugars, CID Certified Residential Interior Designer Certified True Color Expert 410.855.4446 krista@kd-designs.net www.kddesigns.decoratingden.com
2 | JAN/FEB 2024
FULL SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES Custom Furniture Custom Window Treatments
We Listen. Beautiful Happens. Contact Us Krista Shugars, CID Certified Residential Interior Designer Certified True Color Expert 410.855.4446 krista@kd-designs.net www.kddesigns.decoratingden.com 3
JAN/FEB 24
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Inside issue... Page 08
Trendsetter
Luxury Electric Vehicles 2024. Page 10
GoodTimes PUBLISHER Veronica Fountain veronica @simplymagazines.net
Bay Ridge Run - November 23’
Health & Wellness Page 12
Smile Park Dental LAYOUT & MAGAZINE DESIGN Tracey M. Connor
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Veronica Fountain veronica @simplymagazines.net
Page 16
BeBalanced
Learn about hormone balancing for weight loss and symptom relief. Page 18
Weddings on the Water CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lauren Forbes Sarah Dimarco Aya Furin-Campbell Nicole Friedman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Costa
Your waterfront, nautical backdrop wedding experience, a must see! Page 24
Resolutions for the New Year
Fresh ideas to jump-start, 2024 on purpose! Page 32
Pack Your Bags
Where to go in 2024..., wonderful travel destinations a!
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MEET ARTIST
Greta Chapin McGill
(856) 465 2096
Serves the Annapolis in surrounding Maryland area gretachapinmcgill@gmail.com | CHAPINMCGILL.COM 7
Trendsetter Electric Luxury Vehicles Coming in 2024
PHOTO COURTESY OF:MERCEDES BENZ EQS
The EV in vogue! Unless you’ve been hiding in the garage for the last few years, the upscale electric vehicle (EV) market is getting ready to explode. The Tesla Model S and Model X, and the Porsche Taycan will soon face stiff competition for those luxury EV dollars. Read on for a brief overview of what’s ahead for the 2022 model year. For simplicity, we’ll save the EV pickup conversation for another article and focus on EV sedans and crossovers.
PHOTO COURTESY OF:AUDI Q4 E-TRON
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MercedesBenz EQS While it’s easy to think of the EQS as an S-Class EV, it’s way more than that, thanks to an all-new platform that has nothing to do with its conventional counterpart. The “base” EQS450+ will feature rearwheel drive, 329 horsepower, and at least 350 miles of range. Higher-end models promise better capabilities and performance. Car and Driver calls the EQS “possibly the world’s most capable electric car right now.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF: BMW IX
2024 Luxury Electric Cars!
BMW iX
Audi Q4 e-Tron
The BMW iX will be the automaker’s flagship EV. Using an all-new platform, the iX will showcase BMW’s technological prowess that will ultimately transfer to other models as the brand shifts away from internal combustion engines. BMW promises a sub-fivesecond time for the 0-60 dash, 500 horsepower, and 300-ish miles of range.
Based on its corporate cousin, the Volkswagen ID.4, the more upscale Audi Q4 e-Tron will be the brand’s entry-level EV (currently the e-Tron crossover). Audi hasn’t released much detail on this EV other than a Sportback model and the use of augmented reality technology. Expect a range of around 250 miles.
BMW i4 BMW is casting aside the quirky looks of the i3 for something more conventional with the i4 EV sedan. The base i4 eDrive40 will feature rear-wheel drive, 335 horsepower, and a range of about 300 miles. The more premium model, the i4 M50, will have all-wheel drive, 536 horsepower, and a 245-mile range. While it won’t be keeping up with a Model S in Ludicrous mode, a four-second time for a 0-60 run is still impressive.
PHOTO COURTESY OF:AUDI E-TRON GT
Audi e-Tron GT The flagship Audi e-Tron GT and the performance-oriented RS variant will soon be hitting the road. The e-Tron GT is based on the Taycan EV platform but at pricing that’s a notch below its Porsche counterpart. Audi promises supercar performance for the RS, which will offer 637 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard on both e-Tron GT models, and Audi estimates a 238mile range (231 miles for the RS). 9
Trendsetter: New Luxury EV (cont’d)
Lucid Air
Lucid represents a true threat to Tesla’s dominance in high-end EVs. Its first model out the door, the Air, combines ultra-modern looks with breathtaking performance. The inaugural Dream Edition Air promises 500 miles of range, 1,080 horsepower, and the ability to hit 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. Lower spec models will follow.
PHOTO COURTESY OF:LUCID AIR
Other Luxury EVs are Coming... It’s obvious that the German brands are taking the first position in the luxury EV battle with Tesla. Yet, next year will see entries from Cadillac (the Lyriq crossover), Genesis (the G80 EV sedan), Lexus (the LF-Z crossover), and others.
GoodTimes
n Ru
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dg
e
The Bay Bridge Run was a huge success in Anne Arundel County. Nov 23’
Bay Bri
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d o o
T
s e Bay m i T B
he Bay Bridge Run is a 10K race that traverses the Bridge’s eastbound span from Anne Arundel County
ridge Run
to Kent Island in Queen Anne’s County and finishes with a huge post-race party! Once a year, the Bridge shuts down traffic
on the eastbound span for a race that tests your mettle and perhaps your fear of heights! The views and photo ops abound, and this race is bringing in race enthusiasts from across the country. Scheduled every year in November and under the direction of nationally acclaimed Corrigan Sports, a familiar spirit of athletic comradery will continue to prevail, with a few added twists to keep you on your toes.
Health & Wellness
SMILE PARK DENTAL Crofton Dentist, Dr. Michael Park, Ensures All of His Patients Receive the Best Care & Education On Their Dental Health Article by: A.M. Turner Photographer: Joey Acosta
F
inding your true career path can be a challenge, but some people find their calling by traversing through multiple states, continents, and professions. Dr. Michael Park; a local Crofton dentist, is one such remarkable example of a professional journey that took unexpected turns. Born in Ohio to Korean parents; Dr. Park experienced life in Hawaii, pursued higher education at Penn State, served in the Korean military for 2.5 years, and embarked on an academic odyssey that spanned from Drexel University for neuroscience to doctorate level research at Harvard Medical School. The path initially led to publishing 16 scientific articles in the field of neuroscience but a change of heart and ethical concerns regarding animal testing redirected his career toward dentistry. Dr. Park tells us, “My passion is helping people. I thought my calling was scientific advancement and research publications. However, animal testing for research was heartbreaking and went against my values and I realized that I wanted to be more attentive in listening to people and be of help to them with quality care.”
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Health & Wellness SMILE PARK DENTAL
The transition from the world of scientific research to the realm of dental care was a result of recognizing his aptitude for precision and a desire to make a more direct impact on people’s lives. He explains, “My supervising faculty at Harvard Medical School saw my technical skills and my dexterity and recommended pursuing dental school when I decided I wanted to leave the research field. Dentistry requires meticulous work and I could use my expertise to help people.” Now as a general dentist; Dr. Park specializes in a wide array of dental procedures including implants, root canals and cosmetic work. What sets his practice apart from others is his outstanding clinical skills and
quality of care combined with his commitment to education and patient empowerment. “Dentists are the only health profession that requires checkups twice a year. This is because the oral environment is highly dynamic. I see my job as not only treating patients, but also empowering and educating them so they have all the information and knowledge to help themselves. I have seen so many patients who have had past treatments that were either not done properly or have not been given proper dental maintenance protocol and have come to me for help. They deserve to be educated on the treatments that they need.” Dr. Park firmly believes in edu-
cating his patients about their dental health, enabling them to interpret X-rays and understand the importance of regular check-ups. His passion for helping people extends beyond the local community. He and his wife, who is also a dentist, have participated in dental missions both locally and abroad, offering their expertise to those in need. One of the most noteworthy and impressive attributes is Dr. Park’s commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in dentistry. He and his wife regularly attend dental conferences seeking professional development and the chance to explore the newest technologies to benefit patients.
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Health & Wellness SMILE PARK DENTAL
(cont’d Smile Park Dental)
When it comes to anxious or nervous patients; there is a more thoughtful approach. Dr. Park explains, “I try to talk to the patients and find out what triggers their dental anxiety, sometimes it’s the needles, sometimes it’s the chair, sometimes it’s being alone.” By understanding his patients’ concerns, he tailors his approach to make them feel more comfortable utilizing breathing exercises and offers emotional support. Patient safety and satisfaction are paramount to the Smile Park Dental team. They take pride in
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making patients feel comfortable, sending reminders, and maintaining open lines of communication. Dr. Park goes the extra mile by providing his personal cell phone number to patients for emergency situations ensuring they receive timely care and assistance. “Talking with people, getting them out of pain and seeing them smile is the most rewarding part of my job.” Dr. Park says. His dedication to delivering high-quality dental care with compassion and empathy is a testament to his belief that helping others is truly his calling. Smile Park Dental Website: Dentistcrofton.com Email: smileparkdentaloffice@gmail.com Office: 410-721-5000
Health & Wellness SMILE PARK DENTAL
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Health & Wellness
BeBalanced W “Established in 2015, BeBalanced distinguishes itself as an innovative business with a focus on natural hormone balancing for weight loss and symptom relief.”
hen tackling challenging topics like weight loss, hormones and pre, post and peri menopause and andropause symptoms, the journey often feels like navigating through a complex textbook. At BeBalanced Crofton the narrative takes a refreshing turn, guided by the passion and commitment of its Owner and Wellness Coach, Rachelle Polk and her Team. The BeBalanced approach revolves around sustainable and holistic weight loss methods, aiming not just to transform bodies and minds but to change lives! We do this by educating and empowering women and men to embrace a clean and healthy lifestyle long after they’ve achieved their goals. Established in 2015, BeBalanced distinguishes itself as an innovative business with a focus on natural hormone balancing for weight loss and symptom relief. This approach not only aids in shedding pounds, it also addresses symptoms from pre, peri, and post-menopause along with andropause for our gentlemen. Symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, depression, anxiety and low libido. According to Polk, the key lies in working with the body’s natural hormones, steering away from traditional hormone replacement therapy. “It’s balancing, not replacement” she asserts, debunking misconceptions that might deter potential clients.
BeB
Polk’s personal journey, having started as a BeBalanced client in 2017 during a stressful period in 16 | JAN/FEB 2024
Health & Wellness
BeBalanced
her life, serves as a powerful connection to her clients. “I remember how frustrated I was, it’s that pain that getting the word out to women that they don’t have to suffer like this anymore, like our mom’s did, has become my mission!” What sets BeBalanced apart is its commitment to an all-natural, holistic approach to weight loss, offering a range of benefits beyond just shedding pounds. Their signature program, Becoming Balanced, adopts a comprehensive strategy, incorporating a whole food diet, natural supplements, relaxation and other natural techniques. Naturally balancing blood sugar, Cortisol, estrogen and progesterone are all considered factors. Polk proudly shares that clients typically experience an average weight loss of 15 -21 lbs. in the first 30 days, accompanied by a reduction in hormonal symptoms. It’s not just a diet, it’s a program that will change your life!
encouraging them to take advantage of a free consultation. This 30-minutes session helps her, and her Wellness Coaches learn more about a client and their needs in an effort to make the best program recommendation. This shows BeBalanced and Team Crofton’s commitment to personalized and passionate support for those looking to em-
W
hile many clients fall within the 35-65 age range Polk shares, the benefits extend to any gender and age. Her client-focused Spa like Center places a strong emphasis on one-on-one private coaching, offering personalized support. BeBalanced aims to be a transformative journey, going beyond weight loss to reshape lives and perspectives. wAs the new year approaches, with weight loss often topping resolution lists, BeBalanced Crofton is open to new clients,
bark on a transformative journey to Balance.
Balanced To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/ AnnapolisBeBalanced.
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Annapolis
Weddings on the Water
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Weddings on the Water Crafting Unforgettable Memories
In our own cozy paradise of Annapolis, where maritime traditions run deep and waterfront vistas captivate the soul, you’ll find a unique venture that has been making waves in the world of weddings. “Weddings on the Water” is not just a business; it’s a love story that began with the love of the sea, where Christine and Tom, the founders, embarked on a journey to celebrate love and share that magic with others.
By: A.M. Turner Photographer: Joey Costa 19
Weddings on theWater “Tom and I got married on a sailboat 9 years ago,” Christine tells us, “We had planned to get married on the Martha Lewis, a family boat that was a historic skipjack, named after Tom’s great-great grandmother, that was in the process of being restored by the Chesapeake Heritage Conservancy.” It was a family treasure, steeped in history and sentiment. However, fate had other plans. “Six weeks before our wedding, we went to Baltimore where the boat was dry docked, and the shipwright said we might need a plan B.” In a whirlwind of events, the couple found themselves, searching for a vessel for their wedding. They eventually discovered a boat in New Jersey that could accommodate their vision. They were married on the Delaware River outside Philadelphia, a testament to their determination to create an unforgettable celebration. Tom explains, “We loved it so much that we wanted to share that experience with other people.” This love for the water, coupled with a profound desire to bring families together, planted the seeds of “Weddings on the Water.” But what makes this venture truly special is how it marries their backgrounds and passions. “At the time, neither of us were sailors,” Christine says. They took sailing lessons together, falling in love not only with the sport
but with the vibrant maritime community of Annapolis. “Both of Tom’s daughters also got married during the pandemic.” Going through the wedding process of their own and with Tom’s daughters led to the launch of their unique wedding venture. Christine’s background as an attorney and licensed real estate agent with Long & Foster in Eastport brings a unique perspective to the business. Tom acknowledges her positive impact, stating, “She has worked with people on their worst days and now continues to serve them on their best days.” Christine’s experience in real estate uniquely positions her to know many local accommodations, but also help those who fall in love with Annapolis find their
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Weddings on the Water
dream home in the area. “We are a turnkey wedding venue, event planning, officiant, accommodations,” Tom says. “We customize the package, and our venue becomes a family’s haven for the entire celebration,” Christine added. The 4,000 square-foot waterfront house is transformed into a wedding wonderland, complete with docks, a master bedroom suite for the bridal room, and ample space for the wedding party to prepare. Their venue caters to intimate gatherings of around 40 guests 22 | JAN/FEB 2024
for sit-down dinners and 50 for cocktail receptions. But for larger affairs, they tap into nearby venues while ensuring the same attention to detail and personalization. Tom emphasizes that it is quality over quantity, “We are not a wedding factory. We are truly focused on helping people make family memories.” Christine echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of bringing families together. “We help people utilize the house and the venue to create meaningful experiences.”
Their inclusivity shines through as well. “We welcome all couples,” Tom notes. Their goal is to create a different kind of sentiment around weddings, where love knows no boundaries. “We created a business to do this, but it’s more an act of passion,” Tom tells us. They take on a limited number of weddings to ensure each one gets the attention and care it deserves. For Christine and Tom, it’s about making a difference in people’s lives and crafting unforgettable memories. “We want people to hear about us,” Tom says, “and understand what we offer is unique.” As word spreads throughout DC, Baltimore, and the surrounding areas, they hope more couples will be drawn to their distinctive waterfront venue. They envision families returning year after year, not only for weddings but also for anniversaries, reunions, and other monumental events. In addition to weddings, “Weddings on the Water” offers officiating services, planning, and accommodations for the couple and their family. Tom, a USCG Master and Lay Minister, customizes wedding ceremonies to fit the couple’s customs, traditions, and religious needs, embracing the wonder of the Chesapeake Bay ensuring every event is unforgettable. With “Weddings on the Water,” Christine and Tom have created more than a wedding venue; they’ve crafted a place where love, family, and the love of the water converge, forging memories that will last a lifetime. 23
RESOLUTIONS FOR THE New Year Healthy New Year’s Resolutions You Can Actually Keep
A new year often signifies a fresh start for many people. For some, this means setting health goals, such as losing weight, following a healthier diet, and starting an exercise routine. However, more often than not, the health and wellness resolutions chosen are highly restrictive and unsustainable, leading most people to break their resolutions within a few weeks. This is why many people make the same resolutions year after year. To break that cycle, it’s important to make resolutions that can not only improve health but also be followed for life. Here are 23 New Year’s resolutions you can actually keep.
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1. Eat more whole foods One of the easiest and most sustainable ways to improve overall health is to eat more whole foods. Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a plethora of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level. Research shows that following a whole-foods-based diet may significantly reduce heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels, as well as decrease your risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. What’s more, adding more whole foods to your diet can be done slowly and consistently. For example, if you’re not used to eating vegetables, start by adding one serving of your favorite veggie to your diet every day.
2. Sit less and move more
Whether it’s due to having a sedentary job or simply being inactive, many people sit more than they should. Sitting too much can have negative effects on health. In fact, it may be linked to an increased risk of overall mortality. Making a resolution to sit less is an easy and attainable resolution that can be tailored to fit your lifestyle. For example, if you have a desk job that requires long periods of sitting, make a resolution to go for a 15-minute walk at lunch or to get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour.
3. Cut back on sweetened beverages One of the easiest and most sustainable ways to improve overall health is to eat more whole foods. Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a plethora of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level. Research shows that following a whole-foods-based diet may significantly reduce heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels, as well as decrease your risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. What’s more, adding more whole foods to your diet can be done slowly and consistently. For example, if you’re not used to eating vegetables, start by adding one serving of your favorite veggie to your diet every day.
4. Get more quality sleep Sleep is an essential part of overall health, and sleep deprivation can lead to serious consequences. For instance, lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression. There are many reasons why people don’t get enough sleep, so it’s important to focus on your schedule and lifestyle to determine the best ways to improve sleep quantity and quality. Decreasing screen time before bed, reducing light pollution in your bedroom, cutting back on caffeine, and getting to bed at a reasonable hour are some simple ways to improve sleep hygiene. 25
5. Find a physical activity that you enjoy Every New Year, people purchase expensive memberships to gyms, workout studios, and online fitness programs in hopes of shedding excess body fat in the year to come. Though most people start strong, the majority don’t make their new routine into a lasting habit. Still, you can increase the chances of making your fitness resolutions stick. To get started, choose an activity based on enjoyment and whether it fits into your schedule. For example, taking a half-hour walk, jog, or bike ride before work, or swimming at a gym that’s on your way home, are simple and sustainable exercise resolutions. Then, set an attainable goal, such as planning to walk a few specific days per week instead of aiming for every day. Making a more realistic goal can enhance the chances of making your new routine last, especially if you’re new to working out.
6. Take more ‘me time’ and practice self-care Taking time for yourself is not selfish. In fact, it’s imperative for optimal health and wellbeing. This is especially true for those in caretaker roles, such as parents and healthcare workers. For people with busy schedules and limited time, making a resolution to engage in self-care may take some planning. However, it’s well worth the time investment. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate or time consuming. It can simply mean taking a bath every week, attending your favorite weekly yoga class, preparing a healthy meal for yourself, going for a walk in nature, or getting an extra hour of sleep.
7. Cook more meals at home
Research shows that people who cook more meals at home have better diet quality and less body fat than people who eat more meals on the go. In fact, a study in 11,396 adults found that those who ate 5 or more home-cooked meals per week were 28% less likely to be overweight, compared with those who ate fewer than 3 home-cooked meals per week. Start by making one meal a day, then increase the frequency over time until you’re making the majority of your meals and snacks at home.
8. Spend more time outside
Spending more time outdoors can improve health by relieving stress, elevating mood, and even lowering blood pressure. Making a New Year’s resolution to spend more time outside every day is a sustainable and healthy goal that can benefit most everyone, no matter where you live. Taking a walk outside during your lunch break, hiking on weekends, going camping with friends, or simply soaking in the beauty of your backyard or local park are all ways to incorporate nature into your daily routine. 26 | JAN/FEB 2024
9. Limit screen time
Many people depend on their phones and computers for work and entertainment. However, spending too much time on electronic devices — particularly on social media — has been linked to depression, anxiety, and loneliness in some studies. Setting a resolution to cut back on the time you spend scrolling through social media, watching TV, or playing computer games may help boost your mood and enhance productivity.
10. Try meditation
Meditation is an evidence-based way to promote mental well-being. It may be particularly helpful for people who have anxiety or depression. Trying out this practice is a perfect New Year’s resolution because there are many ways to meditate, and it’s easy to find books, podcasts, and apps that teach you how to start a meditation practice.
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11. Rely less on convenience foods
Many people rely on convenience foods, such as packaged chips, cookies, frozen dinners, and fast food, for a quick meal or snack. Though these items may be tasty and readily available, they can have detrimental effects on your health if eaten too often.For example, frequent fast food intake is associated with poor overall diet quality, obesity, and an increased risk of numerous conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. To cut back on your consumption of convenience foods, make a resolution to prepare more meals at home using healthy ingredients.
12. Rethink dieting
Chronic dieting is harmful to both physical and mental health. Plus, most people who lose weight through restrictive dieting regain up to two-thirds of the weight lost within 1 year.Dieting can also make it harder to lose weight in the future. Rather than setting a New Year’s resolution to lose weight by using restrictive measures, such as a fad diet, try a healthier, more sustainable method of weight loss by focusing on increasing physical activity and eating healthier foods.
13. Go grocery shopping regularly
Having a well-stocked pantry and fridge is necessary to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. If you’re not used to going grocery shopping, make a New Year’s resolution to go to the supermarket or farmer’s market more regularly to stock up on nutritious ingredients. Depending on your schedule, it may be helpful to designate 1 day each week as your day to shop. Ensuring that you have time to buy the groceries you need to make tasty, nourishing meals is a savvy way to improve your diet quality.
14. Use healthier household products
It’s obvious that what you put into your body can significantly impact your health. However, what you choose to put onto your body and what products you use in your home matter, too. Make a New Year’s resolution to purchase more natural beauty products, household cleaners, laundry detergents, and personal care products to create a healthier environment for yourself and your family.
15. Add more produce to your diet
Adding more cooked and raw vegetables and fruits to your diet can go a long way towards improving your health in the new year. Numerous studies have shown that eating a diet rich in produce helps protect against various illnesses, such as diabetes, heart diseases, certain cancers, and obesity, as well as overall mortality.
16. Cut back on alcohol
Though alcohol can certainly fit into a healthy diet, imbibing too often can negatively affect your health. What’s more, drinking alcohol frequently may keep you from reaching your health and wellness goals. If you think cutting back on alcohol may be helpful for you, set a reasonable goal to keep yourself on track, such as limiting drinking to weekend nights only or setting a drink limit for the week. If you need a non-alcoholic beverage idea to replace your usual cocktail of choice, try fruit-infused 28 | JAN/FEB 2024
sparkling water, kombucha, or one of these fun mocktails.
17. Be more present
Research shows that being more present may improve life satisfaction by decreasing negative thoughts, which may thereby improve psychological health. Making a New Year’s resolution to be more mindful and present may help you feel more content in your everyday life. Spending less time on your phone, stopping to notice your environment, and listening intently to others are simple ways to be more present.
18. Take a vacation
Taking a vacation — even a short one — may have significant and immediate positive effects on stress levels and may enhance well-being. In the new year, make a resolution to take a vacation with friends or family members, or on your own. Whether you travel to an area you’ve always wanted to visit or simply plan a staycation at home, taking some time for rest and relaxation is important for health.
19. Try a new hobby
It’s common for adults to let once-loved hobbies fall by the wayside as they get older due to busy schedules or lack of motivation. However, research shows that partaking in a hobby that you love can help you live a longer, healthier life. Make a resolution to try out a hobby that you’ve always been interested in — or pick back up a hobby that used to bring you joy.
20. Stop negative body talk
Talking negatively about your body can lead to feelings of body shame. In fact, research shows that engaging in and hearing negative body talk is associated with higher levels of body dissatisfaction and decreased self-esteem in both women and men. Make a healthy New Year’s resolution to engage in positive self-talkregularly and reduce negative body talk. This may not only help improve your relationship with your own body but also encourage others to stop talking negatively about themselves.
21. Visit your doctor
Getting examined regularly by your healthcare practitioner is important for many reasons. Having regular blood work and necessary screenings can help spot potential problems before they turn into something more serious. Though your pace of doctor’s visits depends on many things, including the type of medical care, your age, and your medical history, most experts recommend seeing your primary care physician at least once a year for a checkup. 29
22. Take care of your teeth
Maintaining your oral health is a New Year’s resolution idea that can and should be sustained for life. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help prevent oral conditions like gum disease and bad breath. What’s more, some research suggests that gum disease may be associated with serious health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease, making oral care all the more important.In addition to regular brushing and flossing, most dentists recommend a checkup and cleaning at least once a year.
23. Create a sustainable, nourishing diet
You may be making a resolution to eat healthier or lose weight year after year because you’re prioritizing short-term changes over long-term health benefits. Instead of making a plan to follow yet another restrictive fad diet, this New Year, make a resolution to break the dieting cycle and create a sustainable, nourishing eating pattern that works for you. The healthiest diet is one that’s rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods and low in heavily processed, sugary products. A healthy, long-term diet should not only be nutritious but also adaptable, meaning you can follow it for life — no matter the circumstances. A sustainable eating pattern can be maintained on vacation, during holidays, and at parties because it’s unrestrictive and suited to your lifestyle.
The bottom line
Though most New Year’s resolutions are only kept for a short period, the healthy resolutions listed above are sustainable ways to improve your physical and emotional that can be followed for life. Creating a healthier relationship with food and taking better care of your body and mind can drastically improve your health in various ways. This New Year, try out a few of the resolutions in this article to help make this year — and the years that follow — the healthiest and happiest possible.
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Pack Your Bags Where to Go 2024 The 10 Best Places To Travel In 2024 1. Sardinia, Italy
Why visit? Sardinia lures travelers with its luxurious Costa Smeralda, immaculate beaches, and high-end boutique shops. You can explore coastal villages, enjoy fine dining, and indulge in rich local experiences.
Who should go? Beach lovers, food enthusiasts, and Italophiles. History buffs can explore ruins, and culinary aficionados can savor seafood and unique casu marzu cheese, which contains live insect larvae.
2. Urla, Türkiye
Why visit? Urla, a quiet Aegean coastal town just half an hour from Izmir, is famous for its wineries and vibrant art scene.
Who should go? Urla calls out to those wanting a real cultural experience, wine enthusiasts, adventure-seeking kite-surfers, and those yearning for a peaceful seaside escape.
3. Niseko, Japan
Why visit? If you want to experience an unforgettable winter destination outside of the usual U.S. or European spots, Niseko is worth a visit. It’s the top ski area in Japan, and it has many activities on and off the slopes.
Who should go? Avid skiers and anyone who wants an alternative to mountain resorts in the U.S. and Europe, or who wants to experience new parts of Japan that they may have not visited.
4. Jeju, South Korea
Why visit? Located right off the coast of the Korean Peninsula, Jeju has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site that seems a world away from Seoul. It even has its own local dialect and culture. The volcanic island has a tropical climate but is more than just beaches with crystalline water. “The lava caves are a marvel, with some of the longest stalagmites in the world,” says OvationNetwork travel advisor Sylvia Lebovitch.
Who should go?Active travelers, surfers, hikers, and geology enthusiasts will all enjoy Jeju.
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Where to go 2024 (continued)
5. Orkhon Valley, Mongolia
Why visit? The Orkhon Valley is known for its natural beauty and nomadic culture. You can explore lush landscapes, ancient monuments, and traditional Ger camps, all while enjoying outdoor adventures like horseback riding and hiking. It’s a tranquil escape where you can reconnect with nature and discover Mongolia’s countryside.
Who should go? Anyone looking for cultural immersion and natural beauty, as well as sports enthusiasts looking for polo experiences.
6. Goa, India
Why visit? Its sandy beaches and sunny weather attract people from everywhere. Visitors compare Goa to the exotic destinations like Hawaii, but much less expensive and with a Portuguese influence.
Who should go?Great for beach lovers. Goa attracts single travelers, families and honeymooners.
7. Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Why visit? Tangalle is known for its long stretches of untouched white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a great place to spend some undisturbed time and indulge in water activities.
Who should go? Tangalle is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet away from the city.
8. Oaxaca, Mexico
Why visit? Oaxaca is primarily known for its indigenous people, the Zapotecs, who account for 40% of Mexico’s indigenous population. “Rich in UNESCO World Heritage food, mezcal, archeology, nature and a great knowledge of spiritual energy, Oaxaca should be on everyone’s bucket list,” advises Terry Bahri, a travel advisor.
Who should go? Oaxaca is for anyone who appreciates an immersive experience including art, gastronomy, history and a true untouched destination with an authentic experiences.
9. Comporta, Portugal
Why visit? A rustic paradise near Lisbon with unspoiled beaches, Comporta charms you with understated and sublime luxury.
Who should go? Beach lovers, bird-watching enthusiasts and families looking for a relaxing vacation.
10. San Sebastián, Spain
Why visit? San Sebastián is home to some of the best chefs in the world. It offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience, natural beauty and unique Basque culture.
Who should go? The city is suited for gourmands, culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventure lovers.
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