Small Changes for Better Health this Year
The new year is a great time for new beginnings, and we're all looking forward to a fresh start. Throughout the year, it's easy to let habits that benefit your well-being fall by the wayside, but taking the time to prioritize yourself is incredibly important for your overall well-being. We have a few tips to help you recharge for the new year.
Spend More Time Outside
In addition to getting essential vitamins from the sun, fresh air, and a change of scenery, spending time outside even on a chilly day is proven to improve our mood. Make it a habit to take daily walks outside with your family or furry friend. On the weekends, visit a local park or hiking trail. Not only will the light exercise improve your health and clear your mind, getting out and exploring the environment will give you a connection to nature that we all need to thrive.
House Plants
Putting plants around your living and working spaces can have positive health benefits. Plants help keep the air around you clean and fresh, which can reduce the transmission of germs and sickness. Plants have also been shown to decrease stress, anxiety, and even fatigue! These health benefits make them worth the time it takes to care for them. Not to mention, the routine task of watering your plant and keeping it healthy provides a great sense of accomplishment
Limit Your Screen Time
Many of us don't have a choice. We use technology for our careers, schooling, and entertainment. However, staring at a screen for too long can be bad for your eyesight, posture, and mental health. Take a break from the screen. Try not to use your phone for the first hour of the day, put it away during specific times of the day (like when eating or spending time with others), or adhere to a nighttime “cut-off” so that your mind and body can relax without the stress of blue light before going to sleep. For entertainment, try enjoying a game with friends, playing with your dog, or reading a book.
Drink More Water
Drinking water has proven to be beneficial to your overall health. Most people do not get enough H2O throughout the day. Water not only increases your hydration and overall health, but it can also rid your body of toxins and help to balance your blood sugar. Dehydration can result in headaches and heightened sensitivity to stress, so drink up!
Keep Your House Clean
Not only does keeping your home clean reduce illnesses, but it also reduces stress. You know that feeling you get when everything is organized and in its place? That’s all the anxiety and stress of a disorganized living space melting away. You'll always be able to find what you're looking for, and when someone comes over, you won't have to rush to make your home presentable!
Get More Sleep
Most adults require between six and eight hours of sleep, but it's not uncommon for people to get (a lot) less. Sleep is the time that the body completes a lot of internal repairs and functions, and not getting enough sleep may result in poorer health. Health benefits of getting enough sleep include getting sick less often, reducing stress, and improving your overall mood.