No one is healthy 100% of the time. Yet, that doesn’t mean we can’t refocus and lead healthy lives most of the time. After all, real and lasting change comes from small steps, not giant leaps. Here are a few ways you can achieve that.
Unlearn Unhealthy Habits
We all sometimes do things we know aren’t healthy for us. However, if these moments become habits, we must start thinking about change. These unhealthy patterns could include eating when not hungry, drinking too much alcohol, spending too much time in the sun, smoking, or consistently doing stressful things. Yet, if you try to force yourself to stop these habits cold turkey, you may make matters worse. Instead, make small adjustments that encourage health. For instance, keep healthy snacks around the home, buy smaller bottles of alcohol and use smaller glasses, or pack sunscreen to reapply should you stay outside for long. The goal is to nurture positive habits over time and not punish yourself for things seen as “bad.”
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The health of your teeth and gums is vital to your overall well-being. While oral care can sometimes be overlooked, it only takes a few changes to improve your health. Using a soft bristle toothbrush, adding mouthwash and floss to your daily routine, and limiting sugary drinks and foods to once a day can transform oral hygiene. Just as important, though, is seeing a dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. If you need to find a good dentist that is close by, use an online locator to make your search easy. After all, a dentist is the best person to give you specific tips to ensure your oral health is sound.
Plan Your Nutrition
One of the worst things you can do for your body and yourself is to not get the nutrition you need. In particular, eating unhealthy foods could increase your risk of hypertension, diabetes, stroke, disease, and even cancer. However, if you lack the time or the experience to make changes, getting your diet in line can seem overwhelming. That’s where a one-on-one nutrition service can come in, such as OnPoint Nutrition, to help you meet your goals. With a team of dietitians and nutritionists at your disposal, you can get a plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle. After all, the point isn’t to make a big overhaul immediately, but to take small steps that can create lasting change in your life.
Move Your Body
Many of us have reasons why we don’t get enough exercise. We might tell ourselves there's not enough time, or it’s too hard, or we’re too tired after work for fitness. Then we beat ourselves up for not making it happen. Rather than demotivate yourself with self-criticism after you miss a workout, be understanding and find ways to sneak in movement every day. By doing things like picking up your walking pace, especially while doing errands, you can make your days healthier and improve your fitness. If you find yourself waiting in a line, flex your muscles, and hold the tension for at least 10 seconds at a time. Every step, every curl, every sit-up brings us closer to achieving our goals.
Give yourself the kindness you deserve, and look after your body and soul. Eliminate bad habits, take care of your teeth, supplement your diet with a good multivitamin, and sneak in workouts. Each and every one of us is entitled to live our best lives, so take the time to take small steps towards a healthier you.
Image Courtesy of Pixabay.com
