What’s the best time to get healthy? Right now!
Healthy habits can be hard to start, but once you do you’ll see a bounty of benefits. Since many of these habits are connected, starting one can put you on the path to starting another—then another.
Once you get the healthy habit momentum going, there’s no telling where the benefits will take you. So add these time-honored healthy habits to your lifestyle and start noticing the improvements!
Exercise more
A regular exercise routine can do wonders for your body — as well as your mind.
Exercise can help with weight loss, maintaining muscles and bones, and increases energy levels. In addition, exercise can make you feel happier, more relaxed, and helps manage stress.
But starting an exercise routine doesn’t necessarily mean a gym membership and a stack of heavy weights.
Although it’s vital to research what works best for you, even starting with a brisk stroll around the neighborhood can be very beneficial in getting those muscles moving and heart pumping.
Just start moving and increase your exercise levels as you get more comfortable. You’ll be surprised how quickly your body will adapt to the changes. Challenge yourself and set goals — not only will you get healthier, you’ll get a big boost of confidence as well!
Eat better
As they say: you are what you eat.
An unhealthy diet can contribute to you being overweight, lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol, and also increase your chances of heart disease and stroke.
Unhealthy diets are also linked to some forms of cancer, as well as depression.
A change in diet can be incredibly beneficial in improving your life. Not only will it help combat the mentioned symptoms of poor nutrition, but a good diet will also make you feel good overall and give you a burst of energy.
As with exercise, a healthy diet differs from person to person. Read up on what’s best for you and your lifestyle. Research is key for healthy eating! Try out new recipes or adjust your favorite dishes in favor of healthier alternatives. And look out for healthy options in stores and restaurants.
A bit of reading and a few diet changes could lead to big results!
Sleep better
Do you find yourself nodding off during the day? You might be missing out on essential shut-eye.
A lack of sleep doesn’t just cause excessive yawning. Sleep deprivation has been linked to anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, heart problems, weight gain, and many other issues.
The science of sleep is becoming increasingly established and as we shed more light on this subject, one thing is clear: sleep is absolutely necessary for a healthy life.
So take time to prioritize a good night’s sleep.
There are a handful of apps available that can help you practice good sleep habits. You can also introduce strategies like limiting caffeine intake, going to sleep earlier in the evening, turning off all your screens at night, and creating a comfortable sleep area for you to get the most out of your night’s sleep.
Manage stress
Stress is much more than something that makes you cranky.
Stress can lead to physical symptoms, including headaches, upset stomach, high blood pressure, chest pains, and sleep problems. Stress is also linked to anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Stress is a part of life but learning how to manage it is greatly beneficial.
Meditation is proven to be effective for stress. In addition, many of the tips already mentioned — like diet and exercise — also help reduce stress levels.
It’s important to find out what triggers stress in you. If you need help, teletherapy is becoming a trending option. If you decide to talk to a therapist, these days they can provide guidance completely online or over the phone — so it’s convenient and totally private.
Try new things
Stepping out of your routine can do wonders for your life.
So many of our habits result from being stuck in a cycle of doing the same things over and over — this normalizes bad habits. Trying new things can help break you out of this cycle, and spark possibilities for new, healthier habits.
Also, trying new things will literally help your brain grow.
Learning new skills stimulates neurons in the brain, forming new neural pathways. This will help you learn better and even help fight off dementia. New experiences also trigger dopamine — the “feel-good hormone” — which can motivate you to take on even more healthy habits and an overall positive outlook on life.
You don’t have to climb a mountain to get into the habit of trying new things.
Start off with a sport you always wanted to try or start learning to play the piano. The internet contains a wealth of online classes (many free) to help you educate yourself on a variety of subjects.
Trying new things is a positive habit — and it can lead to greater, healthier habits down the road!
