The best time to take control of your life and start a journey towards a healthier you is now. It is easy to come up with endless excuses, but the time is right to stop stalling and start acting. Use this list to make easy changes that will have you looking and feeling better in no time.
1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Rest is incredibly important. There are many things you can do to ensure that you are getting a restorative night’s sleep.
A few quick changes are purely environmental. It is a good idea to keep your room at a comfortable temperature. Another important atmospheric element is darkness. You should aim to sleep in as dark a room as possible and wake up with either the sun or a bright sunrise alarm clock.
Other good sleep habits include not lying awake in bed, practicing a relaxing bedtime routine, and trying to go to bed and wake up at the same times each day.
2. Stop Drinking, Smoking, and Using Drugs
This one may seem obvious, but it can be one of the hardest to accomplish. The social constructs around substance use can be hard to avoid, and it can feel like missing out if you choose not to partake.
One of the best ways to stop drinking, smoking, or using drugs is to avoid situations where these are regular activities. Maybe pass on a few trips to the bar while you are kicking the habit; unless you are facing a real addiction, you can return once you are feeling free from the pressure to partake.
Each of these substances is very addictive. If your use is more than casual, you may need to seek professional help. Readers can click here to learn about treatment options to kick the habit once and for good so you can embrace a healthier life.
3. Exercise
It may sound counterproductive, but sometimes you have to expend energy to gain it. Even just a small workout before or after work can have a big impact on your mood, your sleep, and your health.
A simple exercise to add to your life is running or walking. If you are goal oriented, you could even sign up for a race to keep you motivated.
Another great option is to join a gym or a sports league. Having to pay can often help incentivize exercise and keep you working out regularly.
4. Spend Time Outside
Reconnecting with nature and getting some fresh air is another fantastic way to refresh your life. It doesn’t have to be hiking or mountain biking; something as simple as a short walk around the block on your lunch break can help you relax and refocus for the rest of your day.
Don’t be afraid to open the windows when the weather is nice, and in the dry months, take advantage of local parks and lakes. Not only is the fresh air good, but the vitamin D that you soak up from sunlight helps strengthen your bones and muscles.
5. Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
If you are looking to lose weight and feel healthier, also consider your diet. Many people are not eating the recommended servings of vegetables daily, so that is a prime place to start. Try avoiding processed foods and foods that are high in sugar or fat as those will just weigh you down. For a smart snack alternative, try a handful of nuts over a candy bar or an apple instead of a bag of chips.
