Live A Healthier Lifestyle - In Five Simple Steps

A frequently repeated misconception about living longer is that “all you need to do is exercise and eat right”. Yes, well, not exactly. Yes, eating the right foods and exercising is a part of healthier living, but it is not all that living a healthier lifestyle requires. Living and maintaining a healthier lifestyle involves:

• A Positive Attitude

• Healthy Self-Image

• Strong Mental Health

Take 10-20 minutes daily to find solace, either through meditation, prayer, or whatever brings you peace; it’s good for the soul, and it can help you cope with the daily commands of life. Another plus is that being at peace may even help to maintain blood pressure.  

We have put together a list of key factors to help you in your journey to living a healthier lifestyle:

1. Be Mindful of your Water Intake - Most people do not drink enough water daily, do you? Sure, your intentions are good, but somehow, you find that it’s bedtime, and you didn't drink the bottles of water set aside for the day. Set an alarm if you need to, but water is crucial for your body to function properly. Drinking plenty of water will replenish the water lost via:  

• Urination

• Breathing

• Perspiration

• Bowel movements

Water is free of calories and has many health benefits. Unlike sodas and juices, water does not contain any sugars that can harm your body. Water has many health benefits, including:

• Calorie Control

• Balancing body fluids

• Energize Your Muscles

• Cleanse your body of toxins

The amount of water each person needs will depend on many factors, however, on average, an adult may need up to three liters a day. Paying attention to the color of your urine can help to determine if you're consuming enough water daily.  If you are taking in enough water daily, then your urine should be either pale yellow or colorless. By default, an adult should drink 8 glasses or 64 ounces of water daily to reap the benefits of water consumption.

2. Sleep Matters - Have you ever noticed that when you don’t sleep well, you eat well? Especially junk food? It is a fact that when you’re well rested, you can better deal with stress, feel mentally and physically alert, and may even be able to control your hunger hormones out of whack. 

3. Move Your Body and Exercise - You need to be moving your body and getting some exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. No, that doesn't mean daily boot camp. It could be something as simple as walking or as fun as dancing, but can you dance for 30 minutes nonstop? 

When you are moving your body, you develop higher bone density and lower your risk of disease. Or, try yoga. Were you aware that yoga poses help you to gain strength and flexibility while improving any balance issues that primarily affect older adults?

4. Keep Healthy Snacks Nearby - Eating small meals throughout the day is good for your metabolism, but eating the right things is what matters most. When it comes to snacks during your day, look for things like fruit, salad, or freshly squeezed juices not from concentration. These are nutritional and won’t give you a sugar crush.

5. Consider Eating the Rainbow - Sounds funny right? But did you know that it’s a thing? You can achieve this by shopping in the produce aisle of your favorite grocery store by choosing bright-colored foods. Brightly colored fruit and veggies are high in antioxidants which rid your body of harmful free radicals, and it makes for a pretty plate. Check out a few examples below:

• Orange - Think Papayas, Oranges

• White - Think Mushrooms, Bananas

• Yellow - Consider Pineapples, Mangoes

• Purple/Blue - Like Prunes, Blackberries, Eggplants

• Red - Try Watermelon, Apples, Tomatoes, Strawberries

• Green - Great for Dips/Salads: Avocados, Celery, Cucumbers, Guavas, Lettuce

Fruits and veggies are loaded with minerals and vitamins which are crucial to your health. It is recommended that you eat five servings of veggies and fruit daily for optimal health. 

Also, consider eating smaller meals throughout your day as it’s great for your metabolism, however, what matters most is eating the right foods. During your day, try a fruit, salad, or freshly squeezed juices but stay away from juice concentrates, and you won’t have to deal with the sugar crush. 

Conclusion

One of the main things that you must conquer is managing your stress levels. Managing stress will help you on your journey to starting and maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. If you find yourself stressed for any reason, take a few moments to relax and breathe. You can also de-stress by:

• Reading

• Exercise

• Meditating

• Listening to Music

• Enjoy a Comedy Movie

This will trigger the release of endorphins, thus encouraging happy and relaxed feelings.