8 Changes to Make for a Healthier Lifestyle

Nowadays, it seems like everyone is rushing from place to place, with an endless list of things to do, errands to run, and obligations to follow through on. All of this running around leaves little time for anyone to focus on improving their own health and well-being. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take in order to live a healthier lifestyle. Here are eight tips you can follow in order to feel (and look) healthier.

Improve Your Sleep Habits

Did you know that studies have shown that the majority of adults get between six to seven hours of sleep per night? While you may think that’s not too terrible, the truth is that it is simply not enough. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to short-term memory loss, increased heart rate, weight gain, and elevated blood pressure. Studies have even shown that chronic sleep deprivation can shorten your life span. Try to aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night, in order to wake up feeling fresh and rejuvenated.

Exercise Regularly

Working out doesn’t have to involve a grueling marathon session at the gym. It can be as simple as a ten-minute walk in the morning, followed by a few push-ups and other calisthenics. The key to maintaining a workout regimen is to start with just a few minutes per day and increase the duration from there. For some people, it may be more difficult to maintain that workout motivation, especially in the morning. For those times when a little extra motivation is necessary, there are plenty of workout supplements available which can increase your energy, boost stamina, and give you that push you may need to go that extra mile.

Practice Meditation

Many people find it difficult to calm a racing mind. If you find yourself continuously thinking about all of the tasks you need to finish, meditation may be right for you. Meditation forces you to relax and focus on the moment, and can also decrease anxiety and tension. If you’re interested in meditation, there are a multitude of resources online, as well as fitness clubs within your local community that can help you get started.

Decrease Your Alcohol Intake

Most people are aware of the terrible health consequences of drinking too much on a frequent basis. Too much alcohol can lead to liver and kidney problems, high blood pressure, cancer, and even brain damage. It’s okay to drink in moderation; However, it is important to be aware of the fact that many lagers and mixed drinks can have twice as much alcohol in them as is recommended. Be mindful of this the next time you head out to happy hour with your friends or co-workers.

Drink More Water

You probably already know that you should drink more water, but did you know that increasing your water intake can help you lose weight? Many times when we feel hungry, it is our body telling us that we are actually thirsty. To find out how much water you should be drinking, find out what your body weight is in pounds. Whatever that weight is, that is how many ounces you should be drinking. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim to drink 150 ounces of water per day.

Get Connected With Your Community

People are under a lot of pressure nowadays. Unfortunately, this increased pressure coincides with an increase in mental illness and depression among many in our society. Technology has also affected our ability to connect and communicate with others effectively. Volunteer work is a fantastic way to connect with others, as well as give back to the community. Volunteering is also a great way to improve your own mental health and well-being.

Watch Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer”. High blood pressure can lead to a host of serious conditions, such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, strokes, blood clots, vision issues, and heart failure. Consider purchasing an at-home blood pressure cuff, or visit your local pharmacy. Many pharmacies have an in-store blood pressure machine you can use in order to ensure your readings are normal.

Schedule Annual Checkups

Studies show that many cancer diagnoses, when caught early, can be treatable. Your chance of recovering from cancer is influenced by whether you catch it before it metastasizes. One of the most important things you should do in order to live a healthier lifestyle is to schedule that annual doctor’s appointment. Aside from cancer, there are a multitude of conditions that can significantly alter your life expectancy if they aren’t discovered quickly. Many of these conditions are also asymptomatic. Visiting the doctor on a regular basis will keep you on top of any potential underlying conditions you may have and may help you live a longer, more healthy life.

Getting healthy doesn’t have to require a ton of time or money. With just a little willpower, a bit of research, and a few small changes, you can be well on your way to better physical (and mental) health.