Do you want to start building a healthier and happier you?
Living a healthy lifestyle isn’t always easy. Sure, some people are born loving to eat well and be fit, but others need an extra nudge. That said, everyone with every type of body can make small changes to live a healthier lifestyle.
All you need to do is adopt a few healthy habits.
Not all healthy habits will work for everyone. We all have different limitations, so you should never push yourself beyond your healthy limits. That said, incorporating several of them will make a huge difference.
Keep reading for a few of our top healthy habits to start trying today.
1. Sit Less
Did you know that sitting too much is a huge health problem?
Most people who work standard office jobs sit far too much. It’s bad for your heart, your brain, and your waistline, so why not stand up every once in a while?
This isn’t always easy. If you work in an office, how can you justify standing up at work? While we can’t change work culture overnight, there are a few things that you can do to incorporate more standing into your day.
First, ask about getting a standing-to-sitting desk. These desks are great for people who want to stand up while doing work.
If that’s not possible, set a timer for once per hour where you’ll get up and stretch your legs. Consider doing a lap around the office or even doing a few squats at your desk.
This might seem like a small change, but it makes a big impact.
2. Stretch Every Morning
Speaking of getting your body moving, why not start your mornings with a few stretches?
When you stretch in the morning, you’re getting your body ready for the day. You loosen up all of your joints and muscles and get your blood flowing.
You could do a stretching routine on your own without guidance. Do simple stretches like reaching for your toes, standing quad stretches, and simple side stretches.
You could also take this time to watch a few morning yoga videos.
3. Do More Cardio
How much cardio do you do every week?
You should get 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week to stay in good health. Are you hitting that goal?
For most people, the answer is no. Avoiding aerobic activity is bad for your heart. Cardio is also one key part of losing weight in a healthy way.
Cardio doesn’t have to be hard. If you’re new to cardio, or if you have trouble with mobility, even taking walks around your neighborhood is great. If you’re ready to move on, consider hiking, jogging, or even riding a bike.
4. Strength Training Is Key
While cardio is important, you can’t neglect the importance of strength training as well.
Too many people think that strength training means that you’re going to get bulky muscles overnight. This isn’t true! Regardless of your gender, it takes a long time and a lot of dedication (as well as a specific diet) to look like a bodybuilder.
For the average person, strength training can give you a leaner and more toned look (especially when paired with ChiroThin).
Having more muscle can help you boost your metabolism and burn fat. It will also help you with functional activities that you need in your day-to-day life, like carrying your children, moving furniture, or doing housework.
There are plenty of ways to strength train. If you don’t have access to gym equipment or weights, start with bodyweight exercises like pushups and squats.
If you want to add weight to your exercises without buying weights, use a backpack full of books, canned goods, or even water bottles to add resistance.
You’ll love how strong and energized you feel!
5. Eat a Healthier Diet
Diet is one of the hardest things for people to change without an extra push. What does your diet look like?
The average American diet isn’t healthy. It’s heavy in empty carbs. You need to have a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins if you want to live a healthy life.
Try to omit sugar (especially added sugar) where you can. Decrease your consumption of red meat, alcohol, and processed foods. These small changes will make a big difference.
You’ll discover that a diet that’s rich in fiber and protein will keep you full and energized. Start following healthy eating habits today.
6. Get Enough Sleep
Did you know that adults are supposed to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night? Where do you stand as far as your sleep goes?
There are some outliers on either side, but overall, you should shoot for an average of 8 hours of sleep every night. This will keep you alert, functional, and ready for your day.
When you get enough sleep, your body is able to complete all of its essential functions. You’ll think better, you’ll have better digestion, and you’ll be in a better mood.
7. Avoid Stress
Stress actually has a negative impact on your health!
People who experience too much stress risk greater weight gain, heart problems, and more. While it’s hard to avoid stress in today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to try to reduce your stress levels where you can.
Make sure to take time for yourself and your hobbies. If you have available time off from work, don’t forget to take it.
If you’re struggling with stress, it’s normal to see a counselor or therapist who can help you easy habits for mindfulness and coping mechanisms.
Try These Healthy Habits Today
Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits will make a huge difference in your life. You’ll feel better, you’ll be happier, and you may even lose some weight. Why not set yourself up for a long and healthy life by incorporating some of these healthy habits today?
Are you ready to get started on the path to a healthier you? Click here to find a ChiroThin doctor in your area.