If you haven’t been feeling your best lately, it might be time to switch up your lifestyle. Good health is built on five pillars. Take care of these foundations and you’ll begin to thrive.
Sound Sleep
Here’s the thing about sleep: you can’t shortchange it. If you treat sleep like it’s optional, it’s going to catch up to you eventually. So, prioritize getting some shut-eye. Schedule the number of hours you need to feel well-rested, whether that’s six or eight and a half, and try to put your devices to bed at least an hour before you hit the hay.
Wholesome Food
Sleeping enough but still feeling exhausted in the mornings? Perhaps another health factor is to blame. Consider your everyday food intake. Would it be considered a balanced diet comprising a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein, and dairy products? If you’re vegan, are you planning meals to get adequate nutrients from animal product alternatives?
When you make better choices and limit or cut out sugar, alcohol, and processed foods, it can prevent chronic illnesses and give you the energy you need to be your best self. Food is medicine, after all.
Invigorating Exercise
No matter your age, moving your body can be of great benefit. And while getting your heart rate up for moderate or vigorous workouts is ideal, it can be as important to do some gardening, play chasing games with your grandkids, or go for a 30-minute leisurely walk, swim, or cycle. Being active doesn’t just make you physically strong and fit. It also helps regulate your mood, cognitive function, and self-esteem.
A Mind at Ease
Your mental health is intrinsically linked to your physical health. That’s why it’s crucial to take time out in a busy life without feeling guilty about doing so. Read a book, watch a comedy, get a massage, learn a new and enjoyable skill, or practice a favorite hobby. The following are proven means of lowering your stress levels and shoring up your mental health:
- Meditation, breathing exercises, and mindful mobility sessions
- Savoring moments of joy
- Meeting up with people who lift your spirits
- Spending time in nature
Start Improving Your Nutrition Today
Your well-being depends on making necessary changes. Make the easy swaps first to feel a sense of accomplishment.
Whether you want to manage your weight or switch to a plant-based diet, contact Dietgenics to book a virtual appointment or an in-person consult in the Dallas region. Araceli Vázquez is a trusted bilingual dietitian whose decades of expertise can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Contributed by Bruce Fletcher, you can find him at brucefletcher@lifetimeofhappy.com