Keen to implement some healthy lifestyle habits? Small, positive changes can make a big difference over time – here’s a look at five you may want to try in the new year.

1. Drink more water
Drinking water has plenty of health benefits – it can help increase your energy levels, ease a headache, relieve constipation, and aid weight loss, to name a few. So try to ensure that you get enough H20 daily: drink a big glass of water when you get up in the morning and keep a reusable bottle with you that you can refill as needed throughout your day.

2. Go for a daily walk
Walking is an enjoyable and low-impact exercise, and all you need to get started is a comfortable pair of shoes. Whether you power walk with a friend, join a walking group or take the dog for an afternoon stroll, you’re sure to reap the benefits of this fun, social and stress-reducing activity. Aim for about 20 to 30 minutes per day, and remember to chat to your GP before starting any new activity.

Read more: The Many Benefits of Walking

3. Start a gratitude journal
Why not start each day of 2020 by writing down one thing that you’re grateful for? According to Psychology Today, gratitude can improve psychological health, enhance empathy, improve self-esteem, and aid sleep, among other benefits.

4. Do a five-minute meditation
If you find that you’ve been feeling frazzled, doing a daily 5-minute meditation may help. Healthline states that along with reducing stress, controlling anxiety and promoting emotional health, meditation may also reduce age-related memory loss. Not sure where to get started? Try this free guided meditation from Headspace, a meditation and mindfulness website.

5.  Ask for help if you need it
Many older adults find it hard to ask for help, possibly because they want to be absolutely independent or because they don’t want to be a burden. The truth is, we all need a bit of help from time to time, no matter what our age. So, if you find yourself in a tight spot this year – whether you need someone to take you grocery shopping, assist with a technical issue, or provide some emotional support – reach out to a friend or family member. Chances are, they’ll be happy to have the opportunity to lend a hand.