Healthy living can mean all kinds of things, and when it comes to making sure your mind and body are in good shape, it’s important to try a few different methods. Consider your overall well-being, rather than focusing on just one aspect of your health. For instance, you might benefit from getting more sleep or reducing clutter in your home, in addition to taking steps to remove stress or anxiety from your life by making changes at work or within your relationships. And while diet and exercise are certainly crucial when it comes to feeling and looking better, they aren’t the only ways to introduce healthy strategies into your routine.
Because your physical and mental health are linked, certain changes can have a profound effect on the way you feel. Getting more daily exercise or spending time outdoors can be beneficial to your mood and reduce stress or feelings of depression, so these are great ways to introduce positive change into your routine. Taking care of your hair, skin, nails, and teeth are also beneficial, but these areas are often overlooked in the bigger picture.
Follow these tips to get started with a new, healthy routine.
Pamper yourself
Your skin, hair, and nails are all connected to your health in various ways, and because your skin is the largest body organ, it’s crucial to keep it healthy. Spa days can be expensive when you go to a professional, but there are several things you can do at home to pamper yourself and relax. You might turn your bathroom into a steam room by letting the shower run hot, use a hydrating facial mask, lower the lights and play soft music to relax. If you’re going to have a spa day at home, keep in mind that it will probably be beneficial to unplug and refrain from using your phone or computer during this time so you can truly unwind.
Get outside
The power of the outdoors has been well documented over the years in regards to how it can help reduce stress, boost your mood, and even reduce feelings of sadness or depression. Getting outside — especially when the sun is out and the weather is nice — is truly beneficial in many ways, and if you can find an activity to do at the same time, you’ll be taking care of both your physical and mental health. Walking, running, playing a sport, and hiking are all great ways to spend some time outside.
Get better sleep
Good sleep is highly underrated by many people, especially those who lead busy lifestyles. Not only does rest help you unwind and recharge after a long day, it’s crucial for your mind and body. Even if you get 7 to 8 hours per night, it’s important to ask yourself whether it’s restful sleep. Consider that the air quality in your home can have a negative effect on your sleep patterns, as can too much blue light (emitted from computers and other devices) or sleeping with pets. Think about the best ways to ensure you get a solid 8 hours every night; your mind and body will thank you.
Choose your foods carefully
Many of us make out a grocery list full of easy meal ingredients, things the kids will definitely eat, or items that sound good without taking into consideration how healthy they are. As you get older, it’s important to choose your food carefully, thinking about how much energy and nutrients they’ll provide, rather than just the taste factor. It’s not always easy when you’re busy or are a parent who wants to please everyone, so do a little research into the best meal plans for your needs and start doing some prep work on Sunday for the entire week. Making meals ahead of time can save you a lot of hassle during a busy week and will ensure you get everything you need from your food.
Healthy living encompasses many things, and the term means something different to everyone. Tailor these tips to your specific needs, and talk to your family about changes they can make along with you that will help everyone feel their best. This will keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy for years to come.
I hope you enjoyed this article – it was written by a guest writer, Jennifer McGregor, from http://www.publichealthlibrary.org
Wellness Rising 