Summer is a time when people often re-dedicate themselves to becoming more fit, or being healthier. There is plenty of inspiration, or even “fitspo” on the internet and social media to overwhelm the average person. Everywhere you look, there are new superfoods to try, fitness routines to incorporate, and wellness fads. Improving your health doesn’t need to be complicated or all-consuming, however. The more simple you can make it, the better chance you have for lasting success.
Here Are 5 Simple Habits To Improve Your Health:
1. Get Enough Sleep
According to a 2013 Gallup poll, the average American adult gets about 6.8 hours of sleep a night, with 40% of Americans getting less than seven hours each night. Experts recommend 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night for adults, as research shows that less sleep leads to cognitive impairment and health issues. Sleep is the body’s chance to rest and restore, and perhaps even more importantly, allows the brain to process and rewire. Getting enough sleep also helps to reduce stress levels and protect against obesity. This is one of the simplest, most effective ways to immediately improve your health.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is another easy way to have a big impact on your health. The human body is comprised of up to 60% water. Water is essential for most of the body’s functions, from digestion to cell reproduction. Although recommendations fluctuate about how much water the average adult needs each day, many of us do not drink enough. Adding some more ounces to your daily routine will have an immediate impact on your health with very little effort.
3. Make Exercise a Habit
While going to the gym or heading out on a run are the stereotypical exercise behaviors that come to mind, there are many other ways to make exercise a part of everyday life. The recommendation is 30 to 60 minutes of moderate daily exercise, which can seem like a chore if you don’t enjoy the treadmill. A little creativity is all it takes to make this part of your day something to look forward to. Going on a hike, playing in the park with your kids, joining a recreational softball team, or even dancing to your favorite tunes can all be enjoyable ways to kick up your heart rate. Exercise is known to increase endorphins and help alleviate stress and anxiety, making it another simple and effective way to immediately improve your health.
4. Reduce Stress
Most of us suffer from too much stress these days, with busier schedules and constant information overload. Stress impacts the body in many negative ways, such as weakening the immune system and raising cortisol levels, leading to obesity. Taking some time each day to do some deep breaths or guided meditation can greatly reduce the load of stress we carry. Make it a priority to take a moment each day to stop and calm the mind.
5. Eat Colorful Foods
Eating healthfully doesn’t have to be complicated. There are plenty of eating plans to choose from, but the simplest action you can take right now is to add more colorful foods to your diet. Choose from whole fruits and vegetables, and try to get as much variety as possible. Adding these nutrient-dense foods will only serve to improve your overall well-being, and is a simple habit to adopt.
