As we ring in 2023, we must also think of resolutions to make for a healthier and happier new year. From the environment to self-care, here are 10 locally-driven resolutions that are easy, and ultimately, good-for-you goals:

1. Give Back: Volunteer or Donate
This year, donate some of your time to local charities. There are many charities here in Bermuda, simply find a cause that resonates with you, and get going! If you’re interested in the environment, maybe check out Greenrock, who works to make Bermuda more sustainable. If you are a cat person, CATS Bermuda is always in need of volunteers at their feeding stations around the island. Additionally, research shows volunteering has positive health benefits, like lowering blood pressure. Simply put, if you have free time in 2023, there are so many organizations that would absolutely love to have you.

2. Learn a New Skill or Hobby
Start the new year with a new skill. There are so many fantastic opportunities within our community to learn something new. Whether that is a physical activity like tennis or golf, or an artistic experience like painting or pottery, there are plenty of options for you and your family. Studies have also shown that trying something new can boost your memory skills, which is an added bonus. Try looking at Masterworks Museum of Art for their beginner classes, or Endless Creation pottery studio for walk-in pottery painting!

3. Be Environmentally Friendly
With the new year upon us, it’s time to start thinking green and future-proofing our island. We suggest ditching single-use plastic, such as plastic bags and water bottles. Plastic is a massive threat to our wildlife and oceans, it has been found in 60% of all seabirds and in 100% of all sea turtle species. As Bermudians, we pride ourselves on the beautiful waters and beaches that surround us, thus we must act now. Some ways to eliminate single-use plastics include not using plastic cups or water bottles, instead, opt for reusable bottles and mugs. Bring reusable bags to the grocery store, such as canvas tote bags (our fish sandwich tote bags make great grocery bags!). Say NO to plastic straws and disposable cutlery, and avoid plastic packaging. There are so many ways to start being environmentally friendly, start today.

4. Become a Blood Donor
King Edward VII Memorial Hospital uses over 2,000 units of blood each year. Donating is simple, and extremely important. The nurses at the Blood Donor Centre are kind and professional, and will help you through the process. One pint of blood can save up to three lives: in less than 20 minutes you have the power to directly help someone. Donate today! Click here for more information.

5. Plant, or Buy a Plant
Plants are good for the environment, and good for your mental health. Studies show the presence of indoor plants can lower human stress levels, help with relaxation, and clean the air. What’s not to love? We suggest heading over to Aberfeldy or Brighton nurseries to buy a beautiful plant for your home or garden.

6. Join a Gym or Exercise Group
Although it may seem cliché, exercise is always needed. The Health Ministry has noted that 1 in 3 adults in Bermuda is obese, and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has reached alarming levels. To combat this, we must exercise and change our diets. Try joining a gym, like Alchemy, and take a class with Panzy Olander. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxing way to move your body, join Salt Yoga for outdoor vinyasa at the Loren on Mondays, Wednesdays or Saturdays. Come springtime, outdoor classes move to Azura, serving as the perfect backdrop to your weekly flow.

7. Shop Locally
Support our local entrepreneurs and businesses by shopping local. Whether that is purchasing your fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market, or buying new sunglasses, it is SO important to buy Bermuda. Small businesses support our local economy, thus when you buy local, you are helping to enhance and strengthen our economy as a whole. Buying Bermudian products is also good for the environment, as it conserves energy and resources in the form of less fuel and less packaging! So this year, try to shop local.

8. Read More
Put your phone down, pick up a book, and read! There are so many health benefits to reading such as mental stimulation, stress reduction and memory improvement. Consider reading as a workout for your brain, which in turn, helps your overall mental and physical health. And truly, there is no better feeling than finishing a novel. If you don’t know where to start, subscribe to The Bermudian Magazine, for just $29 a year!

9. Clean Our Beaches
To continue the conversation about the environment, KBB (Keep Bermuda Beautiful) is definitely a charity you need to be involved with this year. KBB works to eliminate waste and litre through action and education. They organise beach cleanups and activities to keep Bermuda clean and tidy. There are monthly cleanups, trash-a-thons, community pick-ups and so much more. In 2023, either join a clean up or even better, get a group together and start your own clean up. Click here for more information.

10. Focus on You
In today’s society, we can be our own worst critics. This year, if you feel your inner critic coming out, try repeating an affirmation of gratitude. For example, start your mornings with, “Today is my day. I’m thankful for me.” Studies have shown that showing yourself gratitude can make you feel happier, more satisfied, and even help improve your sleep. If you’re feeling stressed, try something new like yoga or meditation. Remember that self-care starts at home: try taking a bath with essential oil bath salts, cook a healthy meal, or watch a movie that you’ve been longing to see, but have been putting off. In 2023, try to slow down, and most importantly, love and respect your self.