10 Everyday Healthy Habits for a Healthier You
Those every day habits can make a big difference in how you feel. We understand life can get out of control, and the idea of overhauling your daily routine sounds daunting. But what if we told you that improving your well-being doesn’t have to be a grand production? In this article, we’re bringing you ten simple healthy habits that can boost your overall wellness. We’re not talking about kale smoothies or hours at the gym (unless that’s your thing), but rather, easy-to-implement tweaks that can fit into your daily life. From drinking more water to taking a breather in the great outdoors, these healthy habits are about making your personal well-being a part of your everyday life. It’s time to keep it simple and feel good doing it!
1. Drink More Water
We are composed mostly of water, so we must stay hydrated to keep our bodies functioning correctly. Eight eight-ounce glasses of water daily are recommended; however, everybody is different, so drink until your urine is light in color, and you need to use the restroom about every two to four hours. There are even apps available that can help you track how much water you are drinking. If you find it challenging to drink water, add slices of fruit like lemon, lime, or orange to add a pop of flavor!
2. Get More Sleep
I love to sleep, but sometimes it can be difficult to go to bed on time when so much needs to be done. To combat this, try to set a consistent time to sleep and stick to it. A calming evening routine can help you prepare for sleep by getting your mind off all those tasks that need to be done. Reading, journaling, and meditating are great options to incorporate into your evening routine to help you relax. Be sure to put down your phone and other electronics at least one hour before sleep, as they can interfere with your circadian rhythm. Also, refrain from exercise, caffeine, and alcohol three hours before bed to achieve your best sleep. Get ready to snooze and feel refreshed when you follow these tips!
3. Spend More Time in Nature
Do you need a way to clear your mind and feel at peace? Spending time outside in nature is an excellent way to improve mental health. The delightful rays of sunshine will boost your mood and serotonin levels, making you feel happier and less stressed. Sunshine is also a great source of vitamin D, which positively affects your bones, heart, and mood. Spending more time in nature also means you are more likely to move your body and get exercise. Try taking a 30-minute walk or bike ride to experience all that the beautiful outdoors has to offer!
4. Manage Stress
Relax; everything will be okay! Managing stress is essential to living a healthy life because it can harm our bodies. When your stressed cortisol is released, the flight or fight hormone, can lead to adverse effects such as weight gain and decreased immunity and focus. Find ways to manage stress that work for you, whether it be exercising, meditating, or taking a relaxing hot bath. Set time aside to do these things so you don’t get overwhelmed!
5. Do Something Active Everyday
Are you looking to add years to your life? Exercise is the perfect remedy to reduce your risk of chronic diseases, maintain healthy joints and bones, and manage weight. It doesn’t have to be crazy either; just 30 minutes five or six days a week is plenty. Try taking a fifteen-minute walk during lunch breaks, using the stairs, and moving every hour to get more activity into your day. Don’t force yourself to do strenuous exercises that you hate. Find something you like, such as swimming, playing basketball, or jump roping and stick to it. Get moving, and you won’t regret it!
6. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating healthy can be difficult, especially when there are delicious temptations all around us; however, there are ways you can set yourself up for success. First, plan out your meals for the week and make a grocery list before you go shopping. Stick to the list while shopping to avoid any impulse buying of junk food. Next, eat a breakfast packed with protein, carbs, and healthy fats. This will give you the energy to tackle the day and keep you satiated until lunch to avoid snacking on unhealthy options. If you need a snack, stock healthy choices at your workplace or home so you don’t reach for those high-calorie candy bars or chips.
7. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness brings you back to the present moment and makes you more aware of what you are doing and what’s happening around you. It is an excellent way to relieve stress, manage emotions, and improve mood. Journaling, practicing deep breathing exercises, and meditating are things you can do to become more mindful. One important suggestion is to do something positive to start your day, such as meditating or stretching, before you look at your phone.
8. Turn Off Technology Occasionally
It’s hard to imagine life without our cell phones or tablets constantly next to us, but putting them away for a while can be beneficial. It may make you feel less connected since these devices let us message friends and family and see what’s going on in the news; however, turning off technology can allow you to reconnect with yourself and those around you. You will feel more present in the moment and will not miss the things that are actually going on around you. This is a great way to improve your mental health and avoid becoming distracted by technology. Log off and power down to feel your best!
9. Learn Something New
Never stop learning! Picking up a new hobby, such as painting, golf, or cooking, can do wonders for your health. These activities will keep your brain engaged and give you a sense of accomplishment and something to focus on. It can even help you manage stress since it will be a positive distraction from daily worries. You never know; you might even meet someone new and develop a long-lasting friendship!
10. Do Something Nice for Someone
Do you want to make yourself and someone else feel better? Doing something out of the kindness of your heart makes not only yourself but others feel happy! Try giving someone else a genuine compliment or holding the door open for others when walking into work. This helps you maintain a positive mindset and overall good vibes. Benefit the health of yourself and others by being kind!
