For many, the new year brings a fresh start and a new attitude towards living a healthier lifestyle. But let's not forget, when the weather is still cold, it's easy to fall back into winter habits like eating more and moving less. Staying healthy is important whether you want to lose weight, get in shape or simply avoid getting sick. And it's much easier than you think.

Here are four easy ways to help you avoid cabin fever and make it a healthy winter this year:

.. Make less room for bad food. Unhealthy food will always be a temptation, and if an expanding waistline is a genuine concern, consider drinking a few glasses of water before your meal to make less room for bad food that is often high in calories. If plain water isn't your thing, try a tasty flavored water like Fruit2O. It has the flavor of real fruit, but at zero calories. It's a decision you can feel good about while keeping those extra pounds at bay. Plus, staying hydrated during the dry, cold winter months is crucial for fighting off flu bugs.

.. Find fitness in the snow. When it's cold and dark outside, it's hard to get out and head to the gym. Instead, head to your front yard. Grab your family and friends and let your inner child out. Go sledding, build a snowman, throw snow balls or shovel the driveway. You can easily burn calories running through the snow and have fun at the same time. Not to mention, laughter is the easiest way to relive stress.

.. Stay limber after the leaves fall. As the weather cools, muscles and joints tend to stiffen up. Don't forget to keep stretching. Get a yoga mat and DVD and try out a few positions to keep your body strong and limber. Just a few stretches a day can keep stiff sore muscles away.

.. Try something new. It's true what they say: variety really is the spice of life. To get motivated for a new healthy lifestyle, take a cooking class to learn about new ways to prepare healthy food. Or sign up for a salsa dancing class at your local community center. Write down your dreams and goals and team up with friends and family to take a risk and accomplish what it is you want. Having a clear focus will help you tackle life's little challenges.

Courtesy of ARAcontent.