It seems like there are never enough hours in the day! Work, school, spouse, pets- you name it! With so much going on, it is difficult to keep your health as a main priority. However, if you dedicate a fraction of your day to your own health it will pay off in the long run.
Developing some beneficial healthy habits is so important. We all understand life can be stressful, but there are some simple things you can incorporate into your weekly routine to reduce anxiety and boost those feel-good endorphins!
Meditation
With so much talk of meditation these days, it seems like everyone is doing it! But where to begin? You don't have to be the Buddha to include meditation in your life. In fact, according to Harvard, meditation does wonders for your heart. According to a study done, " It helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can lower heart rate and blood pressure while reducing harmful hormones."
For all those with insomnia, meditation also has benefits for sleep. Furthermore, there isn't a good reason to not give it a try. You don't have to meditate for a long time, just 10 minutes can provide benefits to your mental state. Try adding a meditation to your morning routine, but remember not to judge yourself if you fall short.
Exercise
As you probably already know, exercise is critical for your physical health. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins which are feel-good neurotransmitters. Exercise can also benefit your appetite and sleep cycles. Unfortunately, many people feel like they don't have time to exercise in their week. However, even 20 minutes of exercise can give you similar benefits to longer periods of time. Try to plan for physical activity on the weekends when you have extra time- hiking, running, or outdoor yoga are all fun options.
Get outside
Sunlight and vitamin D are important for your health and well being. Spend some time in nature or take a short walk! Soak up that sun. You could also plan a camping trip for a little rejuvenating getaway full of rigorous fresh-air activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, or mountain biking. Depending on where you are headed make sure you gear up with the right truck, tent, jacket, fishing line, or mountain bike brand needed for your outdoor recess.
Vitamins and supplements
Sometimes, we don't get enough vitamins and nutritional value out of the foods we eat- that's why it's important to take supplements if you need to. Implementing a daily vitamin regimen that works for you will keep you energized and healthy all day long. Also, probiotics are extremely important for your gut health and can be found in kefir, kombucha, or yogurt. If it's too hard to eat these foods, you can purchase probiotics from your local pharmacy! A disruption in your gut bacteria can lead to chronic health conditions!
For stress, there are natural options before you resort to anything else. Herbal capsules, relaxing blends of tea, or even a topical balm are all great ways to go. There are a variety of forms you can choose from like drops, gummies, or caps.
Drink your water!
Being dehydrated is no fun! Keep yourself accountable by purchasing a reusable water bottle that you can take with you on the go. Personally, I like to set a goal for myself to finish 4 bottles of my 32oz Hydroflask. They say the optimal time to drink water is before meals, but whenever you remember, do it!
Eat your veggies and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that if you eat more vegetables and fruits you'll live longer. There are some great recipes out there that use vegetables and make them yummy! Fruits are easy to eat in the morning with your yogurt or cereal. Some fruits, like apples, actually curve hunger so they are great for a mid-day snack.
Maintain healthy relationships and a community
Social relationships are incredibly important for your mental health. Finding a support system that can be there for you through the good and the bad is amazing! If you feel like you need to meet new people or don't have any close friends, groups like Meetup or community events are a great way to meet others. If you have a hobby you enjoy try to find like-minded individuals to do that activity with you! Getting involved and volunteering in your community is also a great way to be social while giving back.
On the other hand, pets are also great for your mental health. Although they are a lot of responsibility, the benefits are endless. Your pet can also help you get outdoors or meet other pet owners!
