:: Resolutions for Dummies ::

Yes, for Dummies. Cause they're easy to remember and nice to keep up. Pucker up. Once people are in long-term relationships, it's as if they forget how to make out, When is the last time you kissed, really kissed? If you got your man/woman, smooch every day and hold the kiss for at least 15 seconds. Take up the tango. Staying active and learning new skills can help prevent dementia. Researchers found that people who ballroom-dance, an activity that provides a lot of intellectual stimulation (keeping in rhythm, memorizing steps, not mashing your partners' toes), have a lower risk of dementia. Skip the face-lift. Too many people flock to plastic surgery because they want instant gratification, Most people don't need it. Advice? for six months to a year hire a trainer, a nutritionist or anyone who can motivate you to eat better, sleep longer and move around more. Hang up. If cell phones could be amputated from people's ears, everything would be nicer. Limit public cell-phone use to quick conversations. Change routines. Hoping to meet Mr. or Ms. Right? Try varying your morning commute. New surroundings equal new opportunities to see and be seen. Have a latte. Deprivation is a recipe for failure. Instead of simply avoiding your favorite foods, add more calcium and protein to your diet. Aside from the obvious choices of low-fat milk or yogurt, indulge in an afternoon latte, which can provide about 400mg of calcium. Loaf more. Hang out together with your family on a Sunday with absolutely nothing planned. People equate being busy with being worthwhile. It’s easy being green. If you want to do something nice for the planet, turn off the lights when you leave the room. Reducing energy consumption is the single most important thing anyone can do, Forgive someone. A growing body of evidence shows that nursing a grudge can make you sick. Similar to the stress response, harboring negative thoughts about someone restricts blood flow, decreases oxygen consumption and throws your immune and gastrointestinal system out of whack. You may never forget how your ex dumped you, but you will sleep better, be more energetic and be happier if you can put it behind you. And, oh yeah, don't feel bad if you fail at any of these resolutions. It's all a process. Every day can be Jan. 1.