Many adults in the United States set health-related resolutions in the new year, such as improving physical fitness or prioritizing mental well-being. This motivation is often driven by the “fresh start effect,” a psychological phenomenon in which a new calendar year creates a sense of separation from past challenges and encourages renewed commitment to goals.
While this sense of renewal can be motivating, research shows that many resolutions are abandoned within the first few weeks of the year. This outcome is not necessarily negative. In some cases, goals are unrealistic or overly ambitious, and falling short can lead to unnecessary frustration. Recognizing these patterns allows individuals to reframe setbacks as opportunities for learning and adjustment rather than personal failure.
Goal Check-In
Now is an ideal time to assess progress on new goals. As daily routines resume, sustaining new habits can become more challenging. However, this period is also critical for establishing consistent routines that support long-term success. Research suggests that small, manageable changes are often more effective than sweeping resolutions. Whether the goal involves mindful eating, regular movement, or skill development, progress is more sustainable when built through incremental steps. Setting realistic expectations and prioritizing consistency over perfection helps transform resolutions into flexible, long-term commitments focused on growth rather than pressure.
February is Heart Health Month!
Since 1964, under President Johnson, we have celebrated American Heart Month every February. This is an opportunity to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Heart disease is responsible for 1 in 5 deaths in the United States. Over 350,000 people suffer from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. This month, learn what you can do to protect yourself from heart-related death or disability. The American Heart Association developed Life’s Essential 8, which outlines the behaviors and health factors we should focus on for a long, healthy life. A few things we can do during heart month:
Join the Nation of Lifesavers: Learn CPR and be prepared to save a life if you witness a cardiac arrest.
Know your numbers! Evaluate your health numbers that affect your cardiac health, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Talk to your doctor about steps you can take to help yourself.
Promote Action! Eat Healthy, Be Physically Active, and Don’t Smoke.
Visit the American Heart Association website to learn more and download helpful PDFs to share! For more information, visit www.heart.org/en/american-heart-month, and www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/lifes-essential-8
American Heart Association: Go Red – Wear Red
Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association’s campaign to raise awareness of heart disease in women. Heart disease causes 1 in 5 female deaths in the U.S., and nearly 45% of women over 20 have some form of cardiovascular disease. However, only about half are aware of this risk. The campaign encourages proactive heart health through education and action.
On February 6, 2026, Wear Red Day invites everyone to support women’s heart health by wearing red, raising awareness, and promoting healthy habits. Participation shows solidarity with those affected and helps spread the message.
Support Heart Health Month by organizing educational events, sharing information on social media (#HeartMonth), volunteering, or donating to organizations like the American Heart Association. These actions help fund research and outreach.
To join the Go Red for Women campaign, visit www.goredforwomen.orgto sign up, find resources, and stay informed about events and initiatives supporting heart health.
National Cancer Prevention Month
National Cancer Prevention Month is an annual observance in February that raises awareness of steps to reduce cancer risk. Health organizations and medical professionals highlight practical prevention strategies.
Key Focus Areas
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, maintain a healthy weight, and stay physically active.
- Avoiding Risk Factors: Avoid tobacco, limit alcohol, and protect skin from UV rays to reduce cancer risk.
- Screenings and Vaccinations: Regular screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, and cervical cancer tests detect problems early. Vaccinations like the HPV vaccine protect against cancer-causing viruses.
During National Cancer Prevention Month, organizations often host educational events, webinars, and support activities to share up-to-date information on prevention and healing. Social media campaigns encourage people to spread the message and inspire cancer-smart choices and efforts to help reduce the impact of cancer for future generations. For detailed information on specific events and programs in NYC, visit the websites of local hospitals, the NYC Department of Health, or community-based cancer organizations.
March 2026
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month is an annual March observance promoting informed dietary choices and healthy eating habits. Established in 1973 and expanded to a month-long celebration in 1980, this Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics initiative encourages balanced diets including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy.
The campaign features annual themes, such as “Fuel for the Future,” to inspire healthy living. Registered dietitian nutritionists provide expert guidance on preventive care and chronic disease management. Organizations conduct webinars and community events covering nutrition labels, meal planning, and healthy eating strategies.
This initiative has improved eating behaviors in families, schools, and workplaces nationwide.
What are you eating to be the best you?
An ideal diet emphasizes balance, variety, and moderation. An optimal eating plan includes nutrient-dense foods: fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy to support health, energy, and well-being.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fill half your plate with colorful produce for essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Whole Grains: Choose whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oats for sustained energy and digestive health.
- Lean Proteins: Include poultry, fish, beans, nuts, and legumes for muscle maintenance and health.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Choose low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese for calcium and vitamin D.
- Limit Added Sugars, Sodium, and Saturated Fats: Read labels and make conscious choices with packaged and restaurant foods.
Staying hydrated, practicing portion control, and being mindful of eating habits contribute to a balanced diet. Personalize your plate to meet your cultural preferences, lifestyle, and health needs. A registered dietitian nutritionist can help tailor recommendations to your goals and support both short-term wellness and long-term health.
Save Your Vision/Workplace Eye Wellness Month
Save Your Vision/Workplace Eye Wellness Month is an annual March observance promoting workplace eye health. The campaign encourages eye safety and healthy visual habits at work, addressing risks from prolonged screen time, digital eye strain, and workplace hazards. It provides tips for preventing eye injuries and maintaining optimal vision throughout your career.
Why Workplace Eye Wellness Matters
With the increasing use of computers, tablets, and smartphones in modern workplaces, employees are spending more time focusing on screens than ever before. This can lead to digital eye strain, which may cause symptoms such as dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck or shoulder pain. Additionally, workers in manufacturing, construction, laboratories, and other environments may be exposed to hazards such as flying particles, chemical splashes, or intense light, making eye protection essential.
Tips for Maintaining Eye Health at Work
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
- Adjust Lighting: Ensure your workspace is well-lit to reduce glare and strain.
- Use Protective Eyewear: Wear safety glasses, goggles, or face shields to protect against debris, chemicals, or radiation.
- Position Screens Appropriately: Keep your monitors at arm’s length away with the top at or below eye level.
- Blink More Often: Blink regularly to keep eyes moist, especially when using screens.
- Take Regular Breaks: Stand, stretch, and rest your eyes throughout the workday.
- Schedule Routine Eye Exams: Visit an eye care professional annually.
How Employers Can Support Eye Wellness?
- Provide safety equipment and training, including screen protectors and proper lighting.
- Promote regular eye screenings as part of workplace wellness programs.
- Encourage screen breaks and create workspaces that reduce glare and strain.
- Post educational materials about eye safety around the workplace.
Adopting best practices for eye health helps reduce vision problems and work-related injuries. Save Your Vision/Workplace Eye Wellness Month offers an opportunity to learn how to protect your eyes and support long-term visual wellness.