Do you feel like you’re always so busy, but unable to make any lasting changes to your lifestyle? Do you put off doing your New Year’s resolutions for another year, only to find yourself in the same place every January?
We’ve all been there. But as we start a new year, why not try a different approach? Start small with some simple tweaks to your life and lifestyle – and allow them to build into something bigger and better.
Here are 10 simple tips for a healthy lifestyle to help you get started on the right path to physical well-being so you can get the most out of life this New Year!
Reduce stress
This may sound like a no brainer, but stress plays a major factor in many lifestyle diseases. Chronic stress will ruin your health and affect your performance at work. Releasing it before it becomes toxic is key for a healthy mindset and a nourished body.
Sometimes it’s hard to find ways to chill out, but here are a few tips: take time out each day to do what relaxes you; journal regularly; distract yourself when you feel stressed so you don’t let your emotions get the better of you; go for a walk or enjoy other forms of exercise. You might also benefit from joining a yoga class or hiring a life coach.
Eat a balanced diet
Start off your day with a healthy breakfast – eggs, whole grains, nuts and fruits allow you to begin and end the day on a healthier note. Make sure to eat every 3-5 hours, as well as keep healthy snacks readily available for those times when hunger strikes.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
In addition, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking enough water is important for your overall health and well-being. The human body is made mainly of water, so hydration is key to maintaining a healthy, comfortable lifestyle. Hydration consists of drinking about 2 - 3 liters of liquids daily including water, freshly squeezed juices, lemonade, tea and soups. Our brain and neurons rely on water to function properly.
Did you know that adding a splash of fruit juice or herbal tea can make drinking more water more enjoyable as well? Try it!
Lose weight
Are you trying to lose weight? Start cutting out sugar and fat. Not only will this improve your health but it won’t be so hard to take off some pounds.
Losing weight can help you feel lighter, improve self-esteem, reduce joint pain and boost sex drive and energy levels. Losing just 5-10% of your body weight may also improve mental health and your overall health too.
Exercise
Get moving! Whether you are trying to shed some pounds or simply improve your overall fitness, eating well and exercising regularly is the foundation of any healthy lifestyle. Just 10 minutes of regular activity can make you feel better throughout the day.
For those who are just starting out, try doing a little bit of exercise every day, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away from your destination. That way, you won’t be tempted to skip it. (And don’t forget that even a short walk around your neighborhood after dinner can count towards this daily goal.)
Sleep
Quality sleep is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It strengthens our immune system, improves brain functions, makes us happier and more productive, and can even help with weight management. Aim for 8 hours of sleep per night to reduce stress levels, increase memory function and improve concentration.
Create a bedtime ritual
Create a bedtime ritual to fall asleep faster and wake up refreshed the next day. This can include activities such as reading, meditation, taking a warm bath. Stay away from all electronic devices one hour prior to bedtime. The best sleep you can get is before midnight, so these hours ensure high quality and restful sleep while also making sure your mind is refreshed and ready for whatever’s next in the morning.
Limit sun exposure
Sun exposure is important because it helps your body make vitamin D, but you need to protect yourself from the sun's rays. That's because excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer and fine lines. To ensure your health, get in the habit of using sunscreen when outdoors, even when it's cold outside.
We’re all different, but we have one thing in common: we want to feel better than yesterday. Choose 3 things from the list to begin with and start with small habits. Identify what makes you feel good and what brings you the greatest happiness.
By choosing habits that are right for you, and focusing on small changes that can get you started on a path to healthy living, you can begin to enjoy being more physically active, learning how to balance your stress levels, and maybe even begin to feel happier with yourself and your life.
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