We often become overwhelmed with all the tasks we have to juggle in our day-to-day lives, leaving us feeling exhausted and burnt out. However, for us to really feel our best, it is essential that we prioritize our wellbeing and take control of our health.
1. Eat Healthy, Balanced Meals
Making time for healthy, balanced meals can help fuel your body and provide it with all the nutrients and energy it needs to nourish your mind and carry you from task to task.
- Follow a Nutrient-Dense Eating Plan: Developing a nutrient-dense meal plan can help ensure you get the right ratio of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
- Prep Meals Ahead of Time: To ensure you stick to a healthy eating plan, consider prepping meals ahead so that you always have a healthy on-the-go option available.
- Avoid Processed Foods: Processed foods will only provide you with empty calories and have a negative effect on your overall health and wellbeing.
2. Take the Time for Exercise
Regular physical activity doesn’t just offer physical benefits, it can help boost your emotional health as well.
- Choose Exercise You Enjoy: Instead of forcing yourself to go to the gym or running if you don’t enjoy it, try to find an activity that you will actually enjoy – yoga, dance classes, biking, swimming, etc.
- Schedule It In Your Calendar: To ensure you stick to your exercise routine, add it to your calendar along with your other commitments.
- Add a Social Element: Working out with a friend can help make exercise more enjoyable, as well as helping you stay accountable.
3. Make Time for Mental Breaks
It is important to remember to take a mental break and allow yourself to be in the moment, rather than constantly thinking of what you need to do.
- Set a Timer: Pick an amount of time – five minutes or more – and set a timer for a brief mental break.
- Meditate: Meditation can help to center the mind and body, as well as reduce stress and anxiety levels.
- Take a Walk: When you have a bit more time, try taking a walk or exploring nature. This will help to enhance your overall wellbeing by allowing you to be out in the fresh air, as well as providing stress relief.
4. Prioritize Adequate Sleep and Rest
Sleep deprivation can affect us both mentally and physically, leading to poor concentration, poor decision making and irritability. Adequate sleep and rest help improve our overall wellbeing as well as provide our bodies and minds with much-needed rejuvenation.
- Follow a Bedtime Routine: Setting a regular bedtime routine helps to regulate your body’s internal clock and can make it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
- Avoid Electronics Before Bed: The blue light emitted from our screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, which is the body’s sleep hormone, making it difficult to fall asleep.
- Set a Realistic Sleep Schedule: Depending on your individual needs, set a realistic sleep schedule and make sure to stick to it.
5. Stay Connected with Friends and Family
Connecting with our loved ones can provide us with emotional support and comfort during difficult times.
- Schedule Connect Time: Make time to connect with your family and friends regularly, whether that’s over the phone, online, or in person.
- Set Boundaries: Set boundaries to protect the time spent connecting with your friends and family, allowing you to fully enjoy your time together without becoming overwhelmed.
- Seek Professional Help: Remember, it is ok to reach out for professional help if needed – talking to a counselor can help provide an extra layer of support.
Prioritizing our wellbeing is essential to our overall health and wellbeing. While it may not be easy to implement, taking control of our health and making even small changes can help lead to a healthier and happier lifestyle.
What are the benefits of taking control of your health?
1. Improved Overall Health: Taking control of your health gives you the power to make changes that will help you live your best life. You can focus on eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting enough rest each day. This can lead to improved mental and physical health.
2. Increased Sense of Wellbeing: When you take control of your health, you’ll feel more in control of your life. You’ll be able to make decisions about your healthcare, focus on preventive measures and make sure you’re getting the best care possible.
3. Improved Emotional Health: Taking an active role in managing your health can help you better manage your stress levels and emotional wellbeing. This can lead to decreased anxiety, improved sleep quality and an overall sense of calm.
4. Long-Term Health Benefits: By taking charge of your health, you’re taking the necessary steps to ensure a healthier lifestyle in the long run. This can lead to reduced risk of chronic diseases and other health issues.
What are the best ways to take control of my health?
1. Eat a healthy, balanced diet: Eating a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help you stay healthy and in control of your health.
2. Get adequate sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to help keep your body energized, alert, and focused throughout the day.
3. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise helps keep your body strong and can help protect you from disease and illness.
4. Reduce stress: Stress can have a negative effect on your overall health, so it’s important to invest in activities that help you manage your stress levels.
5. Practice mindful eating: Being mindful of your food choices and focusing on your hunger and fullness cues can help you make healthier decisions when it comes to eating.
6. See your doctor regularly: See your doctor and health care provider on a regular basis for preventative check-ups.
7. Limit alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks: Too much of these can have a negative effect on your health, so limiting your intake can help you stay in control of your health.
