Guest Post by: Jennifer Fargo
Being healthy is something everyone wants. The problem is that it’s not always easy to start, and it can be even harder to maintain. Living a healthy lifestyle takes commitment, even when you have a busy schedule or feel like giving up. However, it’s possible to turn things around and set habits that stick.
Here are five ways to build and maintain your all-around health.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Checkups help you stay ahead of major and minor health issues. For instance, your doctor can recommend detailed lifestyle changes so that your risks of certain health conditions are lower, or you may receive a diagnosis for a chronic disease for which you can begin treatment early on. Make sure you have a good team of doctors set up, including a primary physician, optometrist, oncologist, and dermatologist, among others.
One type of checkup that some people neglect is the dentist. However, caring for your oral health is essential — not only for your physical health but your mental health as well. Along with the simple tasks of brushing your teeth, flossing and using mouthwash occasionally, it’s important to go to your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months. If you need a new dentist, speed up your search by using an online locator.
Watch What You Eat
It probably comes as no surprise, but what you eat affects every aspect of your health. However, you have to be careful when choosing a diet to start, as there are a lot of fad diets that may not be the greatest choice for your overall health and well-being. The best way to approach new eating habits is to consult your doctor. They should be able to take into account your unique needs and set you on the right path with different options. If you’re a senior, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor for your Annual Wellness Visit which is covered by Medicare. Along with checking your health, your physician can provide personalized diet advice.
Exercise
Exercise is another thing that helps you obtain all-around health. It comes with a plethora of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, and it doesn’t take long to see results. The hardest part about exercising is doing it consistently for the long-term. The best way to ensure that you stay motivated is to find an activity that you enjoy and to structure your regimen around that activity. Whether it’s doing yoga, HIIT, or walking through your neighborhood, if you do a physical activity you enjoy, then you will set yourself up for success.
Get Plenty of Rest
Along with diet and exercise, getting a good night’s sleep is vital to leading a healthy life. When you’re sleep deprived, it’s more difficult to focus, your attention span is shorter, you have less energy, and your productivity suffers. Come up with a bedtime routine that helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, and prioritize sleep by carving it into your schedule.
Add Joy to Your Schedule
Finally, do something fun at least once a week. Chances are that life won’t slow down much and your daily obligations won’t decrease. Allowing yourself to step away and decompress for a moment is key to keeping your stress levels at a healthy level. If there’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, start it this week. Or, maybe there’s an activity from your childhood that you would like to revisit. Whatever it is — from building birdhouses or sewing quilts to mountain climbing or starting a book club — find something fun and relaxing to work into your schedule.
You can obtain overall health by taking practical measures in your everyday life. Make regular checkup appointments and actually show up, and find a diet that works for your needs. Build an exercise regimen around an activity you enjoy, and be sure to get enough rest. Lastly, add something fun to your life so that you can unwind from your daily obligations. If you turn these five tips into habits, your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
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