- Healthy Diet and Food Choices
Although this is not a new concept, I firmly believe you are
what you eat.
We all have a routine we follow for eating. Not every individual
will eat the same foods, however you can make healthier choices in your diet.
Making those choices will impact your health today, and just as
importantly, will affect your health in future years.
- Fitness and Physical Activity
Fitness gives your body the
conditioning it needs and works hand in hand with a healthy diet. Fitness also
helps prevent and reduce many health issues.
Stress
Reduction
Stress plays an important factor in
your health. Although some stress types are good, there are many that aren't.
Good stress helps you stay motivated with a plan of action helps you be
creative and successful.
When you experience stress that gives
you the feeling demand exceeds your reserves, it can impact your health in a
negative way.
- Sleep
Insomnia and other sleep disorders
affect over 60 million people in the United States alone. Medication is fast
becoming a solution, but it's only a short-term solution.
Stress can be a major factor in sleep
disorders and applying different types of techniques, you can train your mind
to relax and allow you to sleep. My favorite method is relaxation through
meditation tapes.
Establishing a sleep pattern is very
helpful. Train your body and mind to a time each night to sleep and a time each
morning to awaken.
- Proactive Health Care
In today's world, being proactive with
your health care is more important than ever. Regular physical check-ups should
be included in your lifestyle.
If you don't have a healthcare provider
or doctor, you should find one and establish a relationship. You need to be
able to speak with your doctor about your health problems, and finding one you like and trust
are important.
When you establish a relationship with
your doctor, they also have the advantage of having your family and medical
history.
Put your mind at peace by knowing your
health status and that you have a partner in your doctor that is dedicated to
your health treatment and care.
- Self Awareness and Acceptance
Self awareness is important in
allowing yourself to identify exactly who you are. Knowing what your character
is, what your thoughts, values, weaknesses and strengths are defines who you
are.
Low self esteem and negative thinking
are major impacts on your health, both physically and mentally.
Personal growth is an asset that
allows you to find your purpose in life, your spirituality and inner peace.
Self acceptance is crucial in life because it not only impacts you personally,
it impacts all of those around you.
Substance
Abuse
Substance abuse has to be mentioned
because of the alarming rates of usage in today's world.
Alcohol and drugs have become an
escape for many people. Studies and research show the major impact this has on
your health.
Smokers not only impact their own
health, but the health of those around them.
These aren't new concepts by any
means, but as part of the 10 things needed for a healthy lifestyle, they need
to be included.
- Social Activity
Social activity is important for singles
and families. Connecting with others brings more meaning into your life. Of
course there are many ways to do this. Socializing with friends, neighbors, and
family is a common connection.
Socializing in your community is also
important. Being a part of where you live gives you great satisfaction and
allows you to contribute to your community as well.
- Healthy Relationships
A healthy relationship, whether it be
your significant other, a friend or family member, is a big part of the 10
things needed for a healthy lifestyle.
Love is one thing we all need and it
keeps us well.
Keep your relationships active, visit
your family and friends. Take time to write or call them.
Making new friends establishes a connection with people that may have a lifestyle
similar to yours. This can be invaluable, having friends that understand your
lifestyle and your challenges.
Take the time to "be alone"
with your significant other. Date each other... yes exactly! Make the time to
go out to a quiet dinner, or enjoy a weekend get-away. Time passes quickly and
you'll miss out on some of the best times if you don't make the time for each
other.
Communication is always the key, one
that is often left out of the 10 things needed for a healthy lifestyle
- Time Away From It All
I'm a homebody, I enjoy staying at
home immensely. However, even withworking at home,
I need to get away!
Whether it's a vacation, a weekend
away, or even a day away, your body and mind need rest from your daily routine.
We can all be guilty of the "but
they need me" syndrome. However, it's quite amazing how refreshed and
productive you'll be when you return from some time away.
Our bodies weren't built to be
"at (you fill in the blank) _____" 24/7. Knowing when to rest and
enjoy time away is an essential part of the 10 things needed for a healthy
lifestyle
