Everywhere you turn, you see the latest advice on how to be healthy. This information overload can become confusing, but don’t worry — staying healthy isn’t as complicated as the media tries to make you think. There are some incredibly easy things you can do to take care of your mind and body.
Move More
The CDC recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes, or two and a half hours, of moderate physical activity every week. That averages out to thirty minutes of exercise five days a week. It might seem next to impossible to squeeze workouts into your already busy schedule, but you don’t have to cram in all your exercise at once. Even moving for ten minutes at a time can bring health benefits. When you take a break at work, walk around the block or climb a few flights of stairs. You’ll get an immediate mood boost and reap long term benefits, too!
Improve Your Home’s Air Quality
According to the EPA, “In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities.” Yikes!
To improve your home’s air quality, consider installing an air conditioner. The filter can prevent dust and pollen from infiltrating your house. Furthermore, because AC reduces humidity, it can even mitigate asthma symptoms.
Choose Healthy Snacks
When hunger strikes between meals, it is all too easy to grab a candy bar or a bag of potato chips. Train yourself to love healthy snacks. Fresh fruits and vegetables are obvious choices, but if you want something with a little more substance, have a handful of almonds or a glass of milk. You can even have whole milk if you want; many health experts now acknowledge that whole-fat dairy isn’t any worse for your health than reduced-fat products. It may even be better for you!
Always keep healthy snacks nearby; if you let yourself go hungry for too long, you’re more likely to overeat later.
Laugh and De-stress
The old adage says that laughter is the best medicine, but do the facts support that supposition? Yes! Laughter can release tension in your muscles, relaxing your entire body for up to 45 minutes after your laughter session. Laughter can also boost the immune system, trigger the release of feel-good endorphins, and benefit your cardiovascular health. So go ahead, watch those funny cat videos and put the pile of fake poo on your coworker’s desk — do it for your health!
Also take little steps to reduce the stress in your daily life. This might mean that you have to use some of those vacation days you’ve been saving up or buy some aromatherapy candles. Find a de-stressor that works for you.
Life is busy, and sometimes it is difficult to keep up with your health. By moving more, keeping your home’s air clean, adjusting your eating habits, and reducing stress, you can win the battle with surprising ease.
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