I’ve been making some pretty big lifestyle changes recently and I’m super excited to share what I’ve learned along the way with you all.
Taking care of our bodies and living a healthy lifestyle is so important, but it can also feel overwhelming at times.
I’m really trying to focus on building healthy habits and creating a more balanced lifestyle.
I don’t always eat the healthiest foods or stay as active as I should, but I know that making a conscious effort to live healthier is important to feel my best and prevent future health issues.
So, here are 10 things that I’ve been doing to improve my overall health and wellness:
Unplugging
This was initially tough for me because i am sure i am not the only one that spends majority of their day on the phone and laptop.
As a result, I’ve started making a conscious effort to unplug for at least an hour each day.
During this time, I’ll go for a walk, read a book or simply just sit and meditate. It’s refreshing to disconnect from technology and it helps me clear my mind.
Eating Whole Foods
I’ve started focusing on incorporating more whole and unprocessed foods into my diet.
This means choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and whole grains over packaged and processed foods.
Not only do these whole foods provide essential nutrients for our bodies, but they also keep us feeling full and satisfied longer.
Hydrating More. Much More!
Between my morning coffee and evening wine, I realized I was neglecting the most essential drink – water.
So, I’m making an effort to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily and trust me, it makes a significant difference.
Staying hydrated is crucial for our overall health.
I’ve noticed a big difference in my energy levels and skin.
I also try to limit my intake of sugary drinks like soda and opt for water with fresh fruit or herbal tea instead.
Switching to water was challenging but oh so rewarding. I feel more energised and healthier than ever before. If pure water isn’t your thing, try infusing it with fruits for added flavor.
The power of sleep
I took control of my sleep schedule.
No more late-night Netflix binges, hello early night and productive mornings.
It took a little tough love and a couple of sleep hacks, but I can now safely say I am a morning person!
Getting enough sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being. It allows our bodies to rest and repair, keeping us energized and focused throughout the day.
It also helps with weight management, stress levels, and immune function.
Prioritizing physical activity
I used to think that working out meant spending hours at the gym every day. But I’ve learned that even small bursts of physical activity can make a big difference.
I try to incorporate movement into my daily routine, whether it’s taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during my lunch break.
Finding activities that I enjoy, like dancing or hiking, has also made staying active more enjoyable and sustainable.
Jumping onto the Smoothie Train
Swapping my typical ‘fry-up’ breakfast with nutrient-packed smoothies was my first big step. It wasn’t always easy.
In fact, some of my early mixes were pure disasters. But trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll never look back.
My go-to is the yummy berry-apple-spinach blend .
Smoothies are a great way to pack in essential vitamins and nutrients, and they’re also super convenient for busy mornings.
Stepping it up: literally ⬆️
I ditched the elevator and started taking the stairs.
Simple but surprisingly effective.
Not only does it get your heart racing (you’ve gotta love that natural cardio), but it also helps trim down your calf and thigh muscles.
Who needs a gym membership when stairs are practically everywhere?
Bye, Couch Hello, Outdoor Walks
The environment can impact our mood significantly. That’s why I swapped my guilt-inducing Netflix & couch combo for walks in the park.
Not only is it refreshing to be out in nature, but walking has also been shown to improve mental health and reduce stress levels.
And it’s not just good for your health, either. You get a chance to explore the city, meet new people, and welcome inspiration.
Spicing up my life
Swapping salt for spices was a small change that packed a massive punch.
You’s be amazed at how much flavor you can get without reaching for the salt shaker at every meal.
Plus, many herbs and spices have powerful health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism.
For example , turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and cayenne pepper can aid in weight loss.
Mental health matters
Perhaps the most significant change I made was to start prioritizing my mental health. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or just taking a moment to breathe, switching off your brain can give your body the break it needs to focus on healing and growing.
The truth is, taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, don’t be afraid to seek help and prioritize self-care.
I recently started practicing mindfulness, and it has made a significant impact on my overall well-being.
Prepping Meals
Maintaining a balanced diet can be challenging, especially with take-out just a click away.
So Meal prepping is your saving grace.
It may take some time and planning, but having healthy meals ready to go makes it easier to stick to a nutritious diet and avoid impulsive food choices.
I set aside a few hours each week to plan and prepare my meals for the upcoming week. This also helps save money on eating out, which is always a bonus.
It’s a lifesaver on busy days, stops me from making impulsive food choices, and—bonus—it’s a real moneysaver.
Rediscovering Hobbies
Because life isn’t all work and no play, I’ve decided to invest time in my neglected hobbies, specifically painting. It’s a fantastic stress-buster and a brilliant way to channel my energy creatively.
Un-following Unrealistic Fitness Influencers
Those perfect bodies on Instagram are doing more harm than good because frankly sometimes it’s unattainable or not even real.
So, I’ve unfollowed those accounts and focused on following body-positive influencers who promote balance and self-love rather than unrealistic goals.
I now embrace my own unique shape and focus on being healthy, not fitting a certain body type.
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Now, over to you, what changes are you making in your pursuit of wellness? Remember, small changes can add up to make a big difference in your overall health and happiness
