Our health is among the most important things we need to look after constantly. There is a multimillion-dollar industry dedicating to preserving one’s health, from healthy food to dietary supplements, from exercise regimens to procedures to maintain health. However, personal health begins with taking care of oneself and creating a lifestyle dedicated to maintaining good health.
It can feel overwhelming and sometimes, even downright confusing, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There is contradictory information, and both sides do not relent. This exists due to each individual being different, with different needs and requirements to be met. Luckily, there are universal ways to maintaining good health, and today, we’re going to look at those. These are the simplest ways you can live a healthy lifestyle. Small and subtle actions that lead to better health down the line. Of course, some personal adjustments need to be made, especially after considering your own health stature.
Drink More, and Drink Often
Water is absolutely crucial for our body to function properly. Hydration plays an essential role in all bodily functions, after all. It helps maintain the proper body temperature, aids muscle and brain functions and even helps in flushing down toxins in our body.
And it is not just drinking, but also what we drink that matters. It’s a common misconception that coffee and soda are adequate replacements for water, but this cannot be further from the truth. Drinking water is one of the easiest ways to stay hydrated and healthy, and drinking around 3.5 liters of water is necessary to be healthy.
Read the Label
We need to be careful with what we consume and use. Many companies advertise ‘sugar-free’ or ‘caffeine-free’ to get consumers’ attention when their products contain small traces of sugar or caffeine. Small amounts, yes, but there is some still present. Reading the label is one of the simplest ways to know whether you’re using something unhealthy or not.
And not just with food, but with many other products as well. Food and cosmetic product labels contain information that you need to know, such as materials or ingredients used. Make it a habit to read the label, and you’ll be off to a healthier lifestyle before you know it.
Get Quality Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important aspects of our health. It is also among the most neglected, as most tend to sleep under the required amount due to many factors. Sleep is important to our health as it lets the body repair itself, and it also helps prevent heart disease and other illnesses.
If you find yourself having a harder time sleeping, or getting low quality sleep, look into changing the way you sleep. Perhaps get a better mattress or pillow that’s more fit for your body. And try to follow a consistent sleeping schedule to adapt yourself better to your natural circadian rhythm.
Sunlight is a Need
It may come as a surprise, but our body needs to get its dose of sunlight. We often hear the negative effects of sunlight on our skin, but not enough of the benefits. Sunlight is the easiest and best way to get Vitamin D. Vitamin D is a vitamin that helps the immune system, helps maintain the body’s calcium levels, and helps ward off seasonal depression.
However, with the nature of modern life, it can be difficult to get your daily fill of sunlight. Make it a point to walk around under the sun for at least 15 minutes a day. Or try opening a window and allow natural light to fill your room. It won’t just make yourself healthy, but it will also make your room more beautiful.
Sit Down Less
“Sitting is the new smoking,” or so we hear experts say. While sitting in itself isn’t hazardous to our health (it may even be necessary), sitting for extended periods of time comes with various adverse effects. Sitting for more than six hours can cause weaker leg and spinal muscles, making us feel less stable and prone to back or leg pain. It’s also one of the primary causes of weight gain.
Sitting less is as simple as standing up. But there will always be times when you need to sit for longer periods. During such times, make sure to take a break at least every 25 minutes and walk around. It’s also a good idea to stretch, making the muscles more loose and limber. Regular exercise helps as well, even if it’s just light exercise.
With these ideas in mind, you can change your current routine and lead a better and healthier lifestyle.