Take a look at these healthy basics that can help you take care of your health no matter where you are on your journey to holistic health. As you examine each one, think about how you might incorporate it into your daily life. Even if you focus on just one, it will improve your energy, mood and vitality.
What you consume, both on and off the plate, can either energise or deplete you. Don’t overthink it. On the plate, opt for foods that are as natural and nutrient-dense as possible. Off the plate, think about how your environment makes you feel, your interactions with others and the media you use. From there, you can gradually reduce the things that keep you from feeling your best.
The human body is 60% water and every cell requires adequate hydration to function optimally. While it may seem simple, staying hydrated can have a major effect on how you feel. To stay hydrated, drink water and caffeine-free herbal teas daily. Try drinking a glass of water each day when you wake up.
It’s not just about what you do to improve your health, it’s also about what you don’t do. Being calm is just as important as staying active. Taking the freedom to take a 15-minute break throughout the day for the sake of your mental and physical health can help you renew, refocus and reconnect. Rest also includes prioritising sleep, which has a major impact on bodily functions. Make sustainable changes to your sleep routine, such as going to bed half an hour earlier each night.
Whether you’re exercising your muscles and joints, or consciously moving air in and out of your lungs, any activity that involves movement is one of the best things you can do to improve your health. Find small ways to incorporate movement into your day-to-day life that feel good and that you enjoy, such as going for a walk around the block or taking time to practice mindful breathing between meetings at work.
Adapting to your values, your purpose or whatever you feel is important to you can have a big impact on your health and satisfaction with your life. Before you start your day, take a moment to pause and reflect on what’s important to you, or try to be as present as possible while doing simple tasks, such as washing the dishes.
Strong, healthy connections with others and yourself are vital to wellbeing.
Immersing yourself in a natural environment is essential for wellbeing. Spending time connecting with nature can improve mood and decrease stress. Spending time outside breathing fresh air, soaking up some sun or watching the birds outside the window are simple ways to get in touch with nature every day.