When it comes to a longer, healthier, and happier life, the key aspects have always been the same – a healthy diet coupled with physical activity at the top of the to-do-list. Apart from this, there are also things that can boost life expectancy up to fourteen years. As we advance in age, our body changes and athletic prowess may decline. Study after study has helped people understand and adapt habits or lifestyles that can improve humans’ health and overall wellbeing. Here I have compiled the changes you should consider making to live a longer and healthier life.
Ten habits that can help you live a longer and healthier life
Here is the top advice we have got from health experts to help you live a long and cheerful life.
Better eating habits
The phrase, ‘You are what you eat’ is 100% accurate. When you load your body with a lot of junk food, it does not function as it is supposed to do because it lacks a lot of the nutrients needed to perform and be healthy. Better eating habits are imperative, and should be the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. Simple changes, such as adding more fiber or nutrient-rich food like beans, legumes, fruits, and fresh vegetables is a great place to start.
Gratitude
Practising gratitude triggers more positive emotions, improves physical and mental health, and helps you deal with adversity. People tend to express gratitude in multiple ways. No matter what method they opt for, the role it plays in boosting the sense of wellness is well documented. Melissa Okabe, one of the renowned yoga instructors in Los Angeles, says being grateful every day helps to focus your mind on the positive things in your life.
Self-care is critical to surviving
Never put others’ needs ahead of yourself. Always take some time out for self-care. There are different self-care practices you can opt for, ranging from spa treatments, yoga classes or anything enjoyable and relaxing for you. Dr. Wayne Jonas, Executive Director of Samuel Integrative Health Programs, emphasizes self-care and declares it critical to living a happy and healthy life.
Get better Zzzzs!
Sleep deprivation has one of the biggest negative impacts on your physical and mental health. People devoted to having at least eight hours sleep are more productive. Enough sleep is vital to living a healthier and peaceful life. Many health experts reinforce the importance of sleep for mental health benefits as well as physical benefits. We know that when you sleep, you eventually put the body and mind in the rest phase, allowing your body to heal and reducing the presence of hormones responsible for fear, frustration, and tension.
Take a proactive approach to your health
Most of you may consult doctors when you are sick, but it is better to be proactive and take the health professionals’ health advice before you have a medical complaint. Lisa Doggett, the Medical Director of Axis Point Health, reinforces the idea of checking in with your doctor more often. A visit to a health professional may not be your ultimate priority when you are healthy, but being up to date with the screening test can prevent you from chronic illness and other invisible conditions. All adults should consider themselves screened for diabetes, high cholesterol, HIV and others tests depending upon their health condition and age.
Regular physical activity is imperative
The role of exercise in improving your physical and mental health can never be over-emphasized. A leaner, more robust, healthier body is what we all need. Regular workout also reduces the chances of developing type 2 diabetes, cancer, and other cardiovascular diseases. Eric Richard Allen, an experienced and top-rated personal training Miami, urges his clients to put more effort into their physical health as physical activity has long-term health benefits. Regular exercise also maintains proper body weight and makes your cardiovascular system more efficient.
Schedule technology-free time
Disconnect yourself from the technology, especially before going to sleep, switch off the phone, tv and tablet and give yourself enough time to unwind. It is advisable to give yourself at least some time to reset mentally without being bombarded by unpleasant messages or by the digital world. Perhaps try a ‘technology detox’ for a few days- this will allow you to better connect with your inner self and eventually leads to improved peace of mind.
Don’t believe the hype
We live in a technologically advanced world, and we have access to so much information; therefore, if you hear news about health or new studies or treatments, do your own homework, check the statistics from the trusted sources. We all should be wise enough and never blindly trust every hype that can impact our lives. Work on a trusted professional and generally accepted health practices to ensure your physical and mental wellbeing.
Drink plenty of water
Every health expert worth their salt will bestow the benefits of drinking water. It’s a simple step that has many benefits; from carrying nutrients and oxygen to the cells, to cushioning joints and stabilizing the heartbeat. Increasing water intake has even been proven to normalize blood pressure and help to prevent constipation.
Be Consistent
Committing to a healthy lifestyle is the key to reaping the most benefits. It would help if you were consistent with everything: lifestyle, physical activity, or a balanced diet. If you want to see the results, consistency is the key! Remember it takes time to form a new habit and see results, so don’t give up too soon. Remember, giving up too soon means you eventually give up on yourself.
