Sometimes, getting healthy just seems so difficult. There are a lot of opposing opinions out there regarding what's right and what's wrong for our health. Instead of following a trendy diet or fitness regimen, start with the fundamentals of good health — exercise and nutrition. Tack on some care for your mental wellbeing, and you’ll be on your way to amazing whole-body wellness in no time!
Treat Underlying Ailments
Certain mental and physical health problems can really get in the way of your wellbeing. If you struggle with anxiety, headaches, nausea, chronic pain, or insomnia, tend to these problems first and foremost. Consider relieving these ailments with CBD oil. CBD oil delivers beneficial cannabinoids to the body without producing intoxicating effects. If you’re interested, talk to your doctor about trying CBD oil. Once you get the all clear, try gummies containing CBD for a simple delivery method.
Make Time for Exercise Whenever Possible
Everyone knows that exercise is important for health, but if you’re having trouble meeting the physical activity guidelines for adults, try spreading your fitness sessions throughout your day. You only need to engage in 22 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every day to meet the government recommendations, and you can even break this up into two 10-minute blocks to reap the benefits. Park farther away from work, or try to get outside for a quick walk after dinner. Shape.com has listed a few other fitness tricks to break up a sedentary lifestyle.
Exercising outdoors is especially good for your mental health. Being in nature is a great way to relieve stress and restore focus to your mind at the end of a draining day. If you’re hitting the trail, make sure you bring the right gear. For example, quality crampons are important for navigating wet or icy terrain — check out this review guide from Adventure Digest for help finding the right crampons for your outdoor adventures.
Incorporate Vegetables into Every Meal
Getting the right nutrients is just as important as exercise. Vegetables contain several essential vitamins and minerals that are vital to the maintenance of every system in your body, from your bones to your brain. A diet rich in vegetables reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers, so try to incorporate vegetables into every meal. Take inspiration from these creative ideas by Greatist so you can get your veggies in even when you’re craving something unhealthy, like mac and cheese!
Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Certain foods are especially good for reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation contributes to a variety of physical and mental health conditions, including depression, heart disease, and cancer. Foods that contain antioxidants and polyphenols protect our system from inflammation. Some of the best foods to add to your diet include berries, garlic, ginger, cruciferous veggies, and fatty fish. On the other hand, a diet high in refined carbohydrates can contribute to chronic inflammation. If there’s just one thing you do for your health, try to cut back on the sweets!
Find Time for Yourself
Don’t forget to schedule some time for doing things that you enjoy. Many of us engage in hobbies when we’re done everything on our to-do list, which often means we don’t get time for them. Instead, schedule personal time into your day. Pick up an enjoyable hobby like reading, painting, or gardening. If you’re just feeling too busy to find time for yourself, use those under-appreciated moments while you’re waiting or commuting. Listen to a podcast on your commute, read a book while waiting for an appointment, and practice mindfulness while you’re getting ready for work. These moments don’t have to feel like wasted time!
Being healthy is not an objective, but a way of living. It’s a state of mental, physical, and social wellbeing that allows us to live a fulfilling life. Fortunately, some of the most effective ways to do this are also the simplest. Take small steps toward your health every day, and you’ll be prepared for anything that life throws at you.
