As the current year comes to a close, a new year of resolutions is upon us and let's face it, some of us have been putting off those old resolutions or maybe even planning to make them again with fresh resolve this time. I know I am! Maintaining a healthier lifestyle is definitely one that's on my list, and I am sure is on most people's lists.
A sound mind and body will keep you invincible while facing life's challenges. To do this, we must make lifestyle changes that will make us healthy, and happy.
How to switch to Healthy Living with these 5 lifestyle changes
There are plenty of tips out there, but here are five I really love and want to share, simply because they work!
Rewire Your Mind
Before setting out on the journey to a healthier lifestyle, the first step is to shift your perception and outlook on things.
Looking to diet? In addition to simply avoiding junk food, try making a conscious choice to eat healthy food. Also, instead of treating exercising as a punishment, try and enjoy it. After all, losing weight and living healthily doesn't have to be a chore, it should be fun!
Avoid stress. Stress and negative thoughts can cripple your progress, so if you want productive results, move forward and look ahead. A positive mindset is crucial and can play an important role in changing your lifestyle.
Remember, healthy living is not a one-year commitment or a food camp for dieters, it's a lifestyle and an attitude.
Exercise and Yoga
If you don't like hitting the gym every day, try going thrice a week. Baby steps count. If you don't like working up a sweat in the gym, you can switch things up by playing a sport with your friends or better yet, go out for a morning walk - buddy up or go solo.
Get a pedometer and track the number of steps and calories burned if you want to go into the specifics. Keep a food diary to track what you eat every day and the portion sizes. Check your BMI online and keep track of calories using free apps like MyFitnessPal and Desi Calorie Meter. A good balance between exercise and food is the key to a healthier lifestyle.
Try Yoga. It calms the mind and body. It also improves focus, lowers blood pressure, and has plenty of other benefits. It's relaxing and strengthens your muscles too. If you need some advice on planning your yoga schedule or general advice on how to go about learning and practicing it, then you can try seeking out yoga trainers using UrbanClap, a lifestyle app that puts you in touch with different service providers across your city.
Remember, everyone's different - listen to your body, notice its limits, work with them and slowly expand. Don't try jumping right into a rigorous routine because you'll end up hurting yourself and risk your well being.
Food For FunAvoid processed and canned foods. Craving some junk food? Skip it.
A healthy diet that keeps you energetic consists of a good balance of protein, carbs, and fat. Everything in moderation.
Eat fish twice a week and get your Omega-3s. Tuna, salmon, and cod liver are good choices. Eat lean meats such as turkey. Take a multivitamin every day. If you can't afford fish twice a week, try substituting it with fish oil pills. You should also try to eat some fresh soups and salads. Visit the doctor for advice before you start using pills and multivitamins since dosage plays an important role. If you're diabetic, skip the sugar and lower your carb intake.
Maintain a thought journal and track your emotions. How do you feel before and after you eat? If there are mood swings or sudden bouts of anxiety and depression, then something's wrong with your diet. Consult a dietician if you want some professional help.
Cherish Your RelationshipsNow, this is a no-brainer. If your relationships aren't mentally and emotionally healthy, chances are that you'll find yourself venting out your emotions on comfort food or in bad company. Analyze your social circle. Do they support you and give you good advice regarding life's issues?
Form a good support system and make sure that you support others too. Happiness and healthy communication can make a huge difference and impact the quality of your life and that of others around you.
Sleep And Super PowersDon't skimp on your Zzzs. You might say - "Sleep is for the weak!"But look at it this way - sleep impacts your mood, memory, daily performance, and health.
Sleep is very important, so try to clock in a minimum of 7-8 hours every day. If you're not sure how much sleep you need, check out this chart.
Finally, healthy living is not just about food or sleep. It's about the mindset to follow through on your quest with a healthy, positive attitude. Ready? Get set, and go! Get fit today.
And remember, nothing beats laughter and sleep when it comes to healing your way to a healthy lifestyle!
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Writer, editor, blogger, social media enthusiast. Love DIY, Coffee, Music, Reading, Photography, Family, Friends and Life. Mantra: Happiness is a DIY Project. In my free time I play with my dust bunnies and show my diabetes who's boss. Tweet as @vidyasury
