It may seem complicated and overwhelming to break free of bad habits and find ways to live a healthier life, but I’m here to tell you, it’s actually quite simple, especially if you’re shown the way. You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking to get healthier, and not just for the short term, but for good.
Here are the 5 best ways to get healthier for good starting right now.
Plan your food
It doesn’t matter if you don’t like to cook because nowadays there are so many options to still be able to eat healthy. But more importantly, you need to plan what it is you’re going to eat beforehand and have food available to you so that you don’t make poor choices. Whether you prep all of the ingredients for your salad, or buy a pre-made one at Whole Foods, plan, plan, plan.
Tip; I’ll take some time on a Sunday to prep foods, write a list or at least think about what I’m going to eat throughout the week.
Be aware of those who surround you
Birds of a feather flock together so focus on your personal relationships and take note of those who might be a bad influence on your health. Surround yourself with healthy people as often as you can and within your power.
This is not just about what you eat or how you spend your time, but it’s also from a wellness standpoint. Be aware of friends or family that bring you down, or infuse drama into your life and set boundaries to keep yourself safe. The healthiest people are those who have relationships with other healthy people.
Tip; it’s ok to take inventory of your friendships from time to time and make difficult decisions for your mental health.
Set achievable exercise goals
It’s one thing to say, “I’m going to start exercising today” and it’s another thing to actually do it. It seems daunting, especially if you haven’t moved your body in a long time. So set achievable exercise goals that you’re not only going to be able to perform, but also fit into your schedule.
The more difficult we make the idea of exercise, the less of a chance it’s going to happen. For example, committing to taking a walk around the block each day is doable, even if you don’t make it around the whole block on the first day. And remember, something is always better than nothing.
Tip; I lay out my exercise clothes next to my bed each night so it’s the first thing I see and put on before grabbing a coffee. There’s a much better chance I’m going to exercise, if I’m wearing the clothes.
Make sleep a priority
Quality sleep is one of the most essential parts of maintaining physical health because it allows the body to repair and heal the heart and blood vessels.
Continued lack of sleep has been linked to risk of numerous health issues such as heart disease and kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.So it’s extremely important to get consistent sleep on a nightly basis; which means 7-8 hours at least.
Focus on positive; be grateful
Studies have shown that those who focus on the positives, no matter what the situation, have a stronger immune system and better overall health. Your mind as total control over your body so it’s important to control what you’re thinking in a positive light.
In addition, being grateful for what we have in our lives also has a direct affect on our health. Each morning, before you get out of bed, think of 3 things you are grateful for and with practice, this will become a part of your morning routine. Feeling grateful has incredible health benefits. Simply put, an attitude of gratitude makes you healthier.
