© Nevit Dilmen [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

1. Stop Stressin'
If only it were that easy, right? We know it's virtually impossible to completely eradicate stress from your life; however, there are things you can do to reduce stress and lessen its impact. Try taking up yoga, meditation, and of course, get plenty of rest each night. 

2. Drink More Tea
Not only does tea help keep you hydrated, which in turn can help with blood flow and crisis prevention, but tea also has other known benefits. Tea -- especially green tea -- contains antioxidants, which assist in the prevention of cell damage. Just be sure not to load your tea with too much sugar, as that might inhibit the tea's naturally healthy effects. If you do prefer a sweetener to your tea, honey would be a better option. 

3. Think Lovely Thoughts
Choosing to focus your energies on positive thinking, rather than worst-case scenarios all the time, can help you face each day with the hope and fortitude you need to surmount any challenge that may arise. Having an overall positive outlook on life can also help you cope with stress well. Check out this site for even more tips on increasing positivity in your life. 

4. Get Your Diet in Check
For anyone, eating well is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Even more importantly for those living with sickle cell disease, eating well can be the first defense against triggering a painful crisis. Load up your diet with foods that are rich in iron, copper, and vitamin B12 to ensure that your body is receiving the nutrients it needs to function at its best. 

What are your resolutions for 2015? Share them in the comments below!