10 Underrated Ways to Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
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Utilize one (or all!) of these tips to become healthier day by day.
It's no secret that leading a healthy lifestyle is important. Eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all essential components of a healthy life. However, you can do many small things that can also greatly impact your health. Here are ten underrated ways to lead a healthy life that people often know but don't give much thought to.
Get Outside Daily
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels, improve mental health, and increase lifespan. So, make it a point to get outside for at least 30 minutes daily. Sunshine is also a great source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health.
Incorporate More Plant-Based Meals
Plant-based diets have been shown to improve heart health, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and help with weight management. Try substituting one meat-based meal per week with a plant-based option.
Drink Plenty of Water
Most people know they should drink eight glasses of water daily, but very few actually do. Make it a point to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning and half an hour before each meal. You'll start to feel the benefits in no time!
Stretch Every Day
Stretching helps improve flexibility and circulation, reduces stress levels, and can even relieve pain from headaches and muscle tension. Set aside 5-10 minutes each day to do some basic stretches.
Connect with Friends and Family Regularly
Social connection is important for mental and emotional health. Reach out to friends and family members regularly through text, social media, or good old-fashioned phone calls.
Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation can reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, and boost immunity. You can follow these tips to get started:
Sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight.
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
Focus on your breath and the sensations in your body.
If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the present moment.
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is critical for overall health and well-being. Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep per night to function at their best during the day. If you're having trouble sleeping, establish a bedtime routine or try some relaxation techniques before bedtime.
Reduce Screen Time
Too much screen time can lead to dry eyes, poor sleep quality, neck and back pain, and even depression. If you find yourself spending too much time glued to your screens, try setting limits on your screen time or taking regular breaks throughout the day to give your eyes a rest.
Be Active
Sedentary lifestyles have been linked to everything from obesity and heart disease to cancer and premature death. Make it a point to move more often throughout the day by taking walking breaks at work or adding some basic exercises like push ups or lunges into your daily routine. You can also consider NAD IV therapy—it is a great way to improve your health by boosting energy levels and ensuring a healthy body.
Give Yourself Grace
No one is perfect, so don't beat yourself up if you have an unhealthy meal or miss a workout here and there. Get back on track as soon as possible, and keep moving forward!
Final Word
Leading a healthy lifestyle is important for overall health and wellbeing. However, you can do many small things that can also impact your health. By incorporating some or all of these underrated ways to lead a healthy lifestyle into your life, you may be surprised at how much better you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally.