24 wellness activities for a healthier and happier you in 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for self-care is more important than ever. To help you prioritize your health and wellness, we’ve compiled a list of 24 activities that you can seamlessly integrate into your daily routine. These simple practices can significantly impact your health and happiness in 2024.

1. Mindful morning meditation

Start your day with a few minutes of meditation to center your mind and set a positive tone.

2. Healthy breakfast choices

Breakfast is often called ‘the most important meal of the day.’ Fuel your body with a nutritious and healthy breakfast balanced with protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.

3. Follow a routine

A daily routine is an easy way to care for your health and wellness. An established, repetitive schedule may help remove stress and anxiety from your day.

5. Hydrate and energize

Dehydration can lower energy levels and affect brain function, so you must ensure you’re drinking four to six cups of water each day.¹

6. Take a stand

Dedicate at least 30 minutes to standing while you’re working. It may help keep you focused and alert throughout the workday.

7. Desk yoga stretches

Combat the midday slump with quick desk stretches to release tension and improve circulation.

9. Schedule health check-ins and appointments

Commit to scheduling your important health appointments in the coming months to prioritize your wellness throughout the year.

10. Develop tidiness habits

Declutter your home and get rid of the things you no longer use. An organized space may increase your productivity, happiness, and overall well-being.

11. Get outside

Spend time outdoors. Going for a walk, hike, or just being around nature can clear the mind and improve energy levels.

13. Read books

Try reading more books in 2024. It’s a relaxing activity and keeps your brain and memory in tip-top shape.

14. Brain teasers

Challenge your mind with puzzles or crosswords to keep cognitive functions sharp.

15. Power nap

A short nap – no more than 30 minutes -- can recharge your brain and enhance productivity.

17. Find a hobby

Adopting a new hobby allows you to learn something new and potentially make friends who share your interests along the way.

18. Spend time with friends and family

Connection is vital to our wellness, so reach out to your friends and family. If you cannot spend time in person, try connecting over a phone call, video chat, or text.

19. Eat more fruits and vegetables

Opt for nutrient-rich snacks to improve your diet and keep energy levels high. If you don’t like eating fruits and veggies alone, consider cooking them into the foods you already enjoy.

21. Get into a bedtime routine

Being well-rested is excellent for your health. Adults aged 18-60 need at least seven hours of sleep a night.² Consider turning off or silencing devices 30 minutes before bed to give yourself peace and quiet.

22. Herbal tea ritual

Enjoying herbal tea is one way to relax your body and mind before bed.

23. Cut back on sugary snacks

Limiting the sugar intake from food and beverages can help improve your overall health, reducing the risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.³

24. Listen to music

If you begin to feel overwhelmed or stressed, try listening to music. It can help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve your quality of sleep.⁴

References

¹Harvard Health Publishing. “How much water should you drink?” Published 5.22.2023. Accessed 12.20.2023.

²Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “How Much Sleep Do I Need?” Published 9.14.2022. Accessed 12.18.2023.

³Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Be Sugar Smart: Limiting Added Sugars Can Improve Health.” Published 3.28.2023. Accessed 12.18.2023.

⁴John Hopkins Medicine. “Keep Your Brain Young with Music. Accessed 12.19.2023.