Everyone wants to live a healthier lifestyle, but it can be difficult to know how to get started. By beginning with a few small changes, you can achieve modest goals and create a springboard for additional achievements. The following tips will provide you with focus. They’re considered by nutritionists, fitness experts and wellness professionals to be both simple to adopt and transformational for the body and mind. Pick a few of your favorites and try them for a few weeks. With a little determination and consistency, you’ll start to feel better inside and out.
1. Get More Sleep
Sleep deprivation can cause a variety of health problems. According to Healthline, not getting enough sleep can lead to memory issues, mood disturbances and a weakened immune system. You may also be at an increased risk of high blood pressure, weight gain and getting hurt in a car accident. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic recommend seven to nine hours of sleep per night to reduce the risk of medical problems and to achieve the most health benefits.
If you’re having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night, try making your room more comfortable. Room darkening blinds and shades will help your space stay cooler and darker, while a new comforter set can help lull you to sleep. If you enjoy aromatherapy, place an essential oil diffuser near your bed before you sleep. Add a few drops of lavender, bergamot or vetiver and breathe deeply. Other tips include finding the right pillow for your sleep position, ensuring your air conditioner or furnace is set at a comfortable temperature and reducing blue light near your bed. Should you continue to experience insomnia, have a conversation with your doctor. They can rule out any health conditions and give you more tips for restful sleep.
2. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Too much stress can have a major impact on your mind and body. According to WebMD, it can cause emotional symptoms like agitation, moodiness and low self-esteem. A stressful lifestyle can even lead to insomnia, an upset stomach and frequent headaches.
To enjoy a healthier lifestyle, practice relaxation techniques at home. Harvard Health recommends stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness meditation, guided imagery or tai chi. Yoga, mantras, and focusing on the movement of your breath can also lead to a dramatic drop in tension and anxiety, which will make you feel better throughout your day.
3. Eat Whole Foods
There are thousands of fads and diets claiming to keep you fit and healthy. While you may be looking for the latest hack or trick, there’s nothing more reliable than eating a balanced diet free of processed foods. Processed food has been cooked or prepared and then frozen or packaged ahead of time. Examples include snack cakes, chips and breakfast cereal. While processed foods can be convenient and acceptable in moderation, they often include excess fat, sodium and sugar.
Whole foods, on the other hand, include fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Whole grains, low fat dairy and plant-based proteins are also healthy examples. By applying this basic approach to your meals and snacks, you won’t have to worry about what’s on the ingredient list—and you won’t have to constantly watch the scale. You’ll also be fueling your body with real, nourishing energy. Processed foods can make you sluggish, but produce, smart proteins and nutritious grains will give you the extra boost to exercise and practice your relaxation techniques.
4. Make Exercise Fun
Some people don’t like to exercise, simply because it’s boring. However, the benefits of regular physical activity can be life-changing. As Harvard Medical School reports, most adults should get 150 minutes of moderate physical exercise per week. The benefits of being physically fit include a better mood, increased energy and a reduced chance of developing an acute or chronic disease. It may also help to enhance your self-confidence and social life.
The best way to keep up with your exercise goals is to find an activity you enjoy. If you like being in a group environment, consider signing up for a team sport or fitness class. Townsville Martial Arts, spin classes, soccer and basketball are all fun and social choices for adults. Those who prefer to exercise solo can try swimming, running or walking. Looking for something more unique? Try surfing, ultimate frisbee or hiking.
5. Watch Your Gut Health
Probiotic supplements for gut health may seem like an added expense, but they’re actually essential to your overall wellness. Without the right bacteria to line your gastrointestinal system, you may experience stomach problems, fluctuations in weight and difficulty sleeping. If you’re feeling sluggish or you’re constantly experiencing symptoms such as gas or bloating, schedule a checkup with your doctor. They can discuss your options for taking probiotics, such as dietary supplements or adding certain foods to your daily meal plan.
According to Medical News Today, there are several food sources of probiotics. These fermented products include miso, tempeh and kimchi. You can also drink your favorite type of kombucha or enjoy more sauerkraut on your sandwich. Some types of yogurt are also a good source of probiotic bacteria.
6. Nurture Your Relationships
When we think of better health, we usually focus on our physical requirements. However, our emotional needs are just as important. The benefits of interaction and connection with friends or family are evident in many scientific research studies, says Harvard Women’s Health Watch. Social isolation has been linked with an increased risk of depression and cognitive decline later in life. Those who don’t tend to their relationships may also impair their immune system and hurt their cardiovascular health.
To nurture your relationships and have a healthier lifestyle, focus on quality time. Turn off the TV and put down your smartphone. Have a deep conversation, enjoy a mutual hobby or just spend time holding each other in silence. While you’ll feel rejuvenated and energized, you’ll also provide the same benefits to your loved one.
There Are Many Ways to Enjoy a Healthy Lifestyle
Getting healthy doesn’t have to be hard. First, decide how you can get more active, nourished and relaxed on a daily basis. Next, spend time with those you care about—and don’t hesitate to ask your doctor if you have questions about your health. When you attend to your physical, mental and emotional needs, you’ll notice you feel more alert, energetic and positive.
