Wellness is a crucial factor when it comes to enjoying your life. If you aren’t supporting your brain and body with your lifestyle choices, it can be hard just to get out of bed in the morning, let alone enjoy your day to the fullest. The good news is that wellness is not a destination, but rather an ongoing practice that can be modified to fit each individual person. Aligning yourself with healthy habits does not have to be overwhelming or expensive, especially if you begin with a few simple practices.
1. Nutrition
Following a nutritious diet is often the first thing that comes to mind when people think of health and wellness. What you eat is indeed a key part of maintaining your overall health, but it does not have to be as intimidating as many people think. Luckily, you do not need to eat like a training Olympian to reap the benefits of nourishing foods. Incorporating whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet is the baseline of most doctors’ recommendations, backed up by the CDC. Adding these foods into your diet slowly, alongside whatever you already enjoy eating, can be an easy way to fuel your body in a health-conscious way.
2. Supplements
The world of supplements can seem overwhelming, especially now that there are so many options. If you want to break into the supplement field as a means of practicing wellness but don’t know where to start, you will first want to assess your goals and what areas of health you want to reinforce. One popular choice is variations of omega-3s. Taking omega 3 supplements is a good way to support heart health and overall bodily function. Different vitamins and minerals will target different areas of the body, so doing your own research is key to meeting your personal goals.
3. Exercise
Finding the motivation to work out, whether it be at home or in the gym, can be hard to do. If you haven’t had an exercise routine in a while, starting small is the key to building a sustainable schedule. Going for a walk outside after work twice a week, or signing up for a weekly class with a friend can be achievable ways to dive back into working out. Whatever you choose to do, pick something that you enjoy.
4. Cleaning
Not only is cleaning a way to move your body without feeling like you’re exercising, but it provides you with the peace of mind that comes with an organized space. According to Healthline, cleaning a physical space can have a similar effect on your mind, clearing out negative thoughts and making way for increased focus. Additionally, tidying up and disinfecting your home can clear out seasonal allergens that may disrupt your immune system and prevent the risk of illness from airborne particles. Blasting your favorite music and taking time to organize your surroundings is a great way to keep your brain sharp and your heart rate up.
5. Journaling
Mental wellness can be just as important for your health as physical wellness, but the ways to practice it can seem less obvious than stepping outside and going for a walk. One way to keep your brain active and let your mind wander in a purposeful way is to keep a journal. Some journals will provide you with prompts to respond to, like a gratitude journal, while others will be a blank canvas for you to paint with your thoughts, dreams, and worries. According to NBC, not only can keeping a journal help alleviate feelings of anxiety or stress, but it may also support your immune system and physical health.
Finding the time and energy to dedicate to your health does not have to be a chore. Easing into new habits can make them more sustainable, especially when it comes to simple steps aimed toward physical and mental wellness.
