Do you ever feel like your physical or emotional health is falling behind? Have you created some big health-related goals you are having trouble reaching? If so, it may be time to form some healthy habits. Your habits should always be formed before setting goals, as this is exactly what is going to help achieve those goals. You don’t want to get discouraged and give up on your goals because you don’t have the proper habits in place first to get you there!
Here are some healthy habits you can start doing TODAY that will make a big difference in your overall health and wellness. This may be the jump start you need on your journey to motivate you to take the next step and set some new goals.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
You probably brush your teeth every day, but you might not be paying close enough attention to your dental hygiene. Your teeth and gums are vital to your physical health, so they should be your top priority. Try to make a habit of brushing twice a day. This is a simple, yet a beneficial habit, you can start right away. It’s something you can feel accomplished doing when you wake up in the morning and start your day off with one of the healthy habits already done!
Wake Up Early to Exercise
If you are having trouble fitting in exercise into your busy schedule, try adding it early in the morning. Yes, waking up earlier is going to be an adjustment that will include going to be earlier, but you will appreciate it for the rest of the day. You are getting your workout done and out of the way early in the morning, it will actually boost your energy and make you feel happier, more productive, and more confident.
Get More Fresh Air
This is a simple habit, right? Try to make it a point to get more fresh air each day. This might mean walking your dog instead of just letting them out in the backyard, or enjoying your lunch outside each day while you are at work. Play with your kids outside and go for a hike on the weekends. Do whatever it takes to get in more fresh air and sunshine. It’s good for your body and your soul. It’s also a great chance to get away from a computer or phone screen and get some vitamin D! Even 5 minutes can make a big difference.
Eat Your Meals Mindfully
Are you having trouble sticking to a healthier diet? If so, don’t start with changing WHAT you eat, but HOW you eat. Start just by eating more mindfully. Don’t use your phone and don’t watch any TV while you eat. Sit at a table or desk where there aren’t other distractions, and just focusing on the food you are eating. Chew slowly, enjoying every bite. Use the good china! Light some candles! Make it a relaxing and fun experience you look forward to and you will appreciate your meals more and will be less likely to overindulge.
Get Enough Sleep
This is a habit many people neglect, assuming it’s not important. But sleep is much more than just not feeling tired the next day. Sleep is absolutely essential for your health and wellbeing. It is needed to reduce stress, feel energized, have proper focus and concentration, manage your weight and physical health, keep your cardiovascular health in check, and so much more. If you can only start one habit, in my opinion it should be a better sleep routine so you are getting better quality sleep. A good night’s rest can help you in so many areas of your life, it will better enable you to work on those goals and focus on your family, work, and also on having FUN! Try to wind down at night by turning off the screens, and instead listen to music, read a book, pray, or take a long hot bath. Calm your mind and don’t think about the worries of today or the problems of tomorrow. Worrying won’t change them and will just take your health away and also years off your life!
Just remember healthy habits won’t happen overnight, so don’t overdo it! Check out my related post on why you should form habits one at a time.
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