Many people believe that a healthy lifestyle only consists of diet and exercise. But in reality, healthy living encompasses much more. Certainly our diet and exercise patterns affect our health, but take a look at these seven other elements of healthy living to ensure you stay in top shape for years to come.
1. Healthy Diet
With the abundance of easy, but unhealthy food choices around us, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy diet. But it is imperative to avoid junk whenever possible. We all indulge in a piece of chocolate cake or a soda every once in a while, but we remain healthy if the overall pattern of our diet consists of nutritious food. Focus on eating a rainbow of vegetables, lean meats and protein, healthy fats, low sugar, and whole grains in order to keep your body in top condition.
2. Adequate Hydration
Water is essential for life; therefore we must work hard to stay hydrated. Aim to drink 8-10 8-ounce cups of water or half your body weight in ounces each day. You will absorb some water from the food and other drinks you consume daily, but be aware of foods that dehydrate your body. Caffeine is a notorious diuretic, so be aware that you will have to drink more pure water if you drink something with caffeine in it.
3. Restful Sleep
Our bodies recharge and detoxify when we sleep, so adequate sleep is essential for us to stay healthy. Most people run on less than 7 hours a night and then fill up with caffeine when they get tired. But if we prioritize getting quality sleep every night, then we will be more alert during the day. It’s a win-win for our minds and our bodies.
4. Physical Activity
Certainly in our fast-paced world, it is difficult to find enough time to exercise. But physical activity is one of the key elements of healthy living. Adequate physical activity does not have to be pumping iron for an hour and a half every day. It can simply be playing outside with the kids for 20-30 minutes a day or taking a quick walk around the office a couple times a day. To obtain better health, attempt to add a few minutes of physical activity every couple hours during the day to start. Once you have that pattern established, find a way to add more until you reach 30 minutes of activity 3-4 times a week.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress can take its toll on our bodies in many different ways. We can develop digestive problems, illness, anger or other emotional problems, and even age prematurely if stress is left unchecked. Therefore, you must find a way to release stress in your life. Whether its through yoga, meditation, exercise or a relaxing massage, you will keep your body healthier by regularly releasing stress.
6. Social Support
Humans are social beings and thrive in an environment of social support. If you do not have a community around you, reach out to people you know or clubs in your area to find one. Social support and healthy friendships help us stay balanced and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
7. Enjoyable Recreation
Similar to social support, enjoying life with the people around us is an element of healthy living. Recreation can consist of crafting, gardening, a local sports league, or anything else you choose to do to relax. Engaging in these activities help our bodies reduce stress and simply enjoy life. A negative attitude can contribute to illness or stress, so finding ways to incorporate laughter or playfulness into your life will help you maintain a healthy body.
Following these tips for healthy living will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Focus on eating a colorful and nutrient dense diet most of the time and drinking enough pure water to maintain your health. Plus, exercising moderately, reducing stress, and enjoying recreation along with your social network are key elements of healthy living. Finally, getting enough restful sleep will help your body stay healthy well into your golden years.