Simple Daily Habits That Prioritize Your Health

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Some people believe they need a grand gesture to improve their lives and health. While they are certainly commendable, sustainable habits matter more. There are many simple actions to do every day and better your health in the long run, even when you don’t recognize it.

Ready to begin laying the foundation for a healthier lifestyle? Here are 11 suggestions to help you get started.

1. Do Breathing Exercises 

To start the day, prepare yourself by practicing a few breathing exercises. Take a deep breath by inhaling through your nose, and try to retain your breath for five seconds before exhaling through your mouth.

You can also try the breath focus method, which incorporates meditation. Think of a word that sparks joy and hold onto it. Concentrate on breathing throughout the situation as you form an image or scenario of your chosen word.

2. Stretch

Whether you’re going to exercise or not, it’s essential to stretch your body and get your muscles moving even just a little bit. As soon as you wake up, lie on the bed, reaching your arms as high as possible while your legs extend as much as possible. 

Once you’re standing up, consider going for a full-body stretch. You can go on your tippy-toes to work out the feet. If you want to work on your lower back and hamstrings, try to bend forward and have your fingers touch the end of your feet.

3. Go on a Walk

Exercise helps maintain health and ensures good movement. Granted, going to the gym every day is too strenuous for your body — rest days are highly recommended for the body to recuperate after an intense workout. To keep your body moving on these days, a good walk is a good balance of movement and relaxation.

Get out of the house and take a swing around the neighborhood. Getting fresh air can boost your mental health and improve cognitive function. You also get to be more in touch with nature along the way.

4. Drink Water 

Water is a daily essential. Some people ultimately forget to hydrate themselves unless they’re extremely parched. Try to set an alarm at different points of the day to remember. You can also get a refillable water bottle and keep it near you.

The myth is that people should drink eight cups of water a day, but the ideal daily water intake varies from person to person. If you tend to be more active, you’ll likely sweat a lot more. To avoid dehydration, you’d want to increase your drinking frequency.

5. Eat Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and vegetables are key to a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Try to incorporate these foods into your meals throughout the day. For example, you might have a banana with breakfast and make a side salad for dinner.

It can be stressful to think about what to eat every day, so consider planning your meals. This way, you’ll have a menu to help you grocery shop, and you’ll know exactly what to make throughout the week.

6. Wash Your Hands

Whether you’re about to leave the bathroom or are arriving home after a long day out, take the time to wash your hands. It’s a simple but effective way to get rid of germs and help keep yourself and others healthy. Rub them together with soap under warm water to eliminate up to three-quarters of the bacteria on your hands.

7. Brush Your Teeth Properly 

Brushing your teeth is another daily habit that keeps your teeth and gums clean. Every time you eat food, bits and pieces get stuck in between. Plaque and bacteria also build up, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

However, some people don’t recognize the importance of oral hygiene or how to do it properly. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and incorporate flossing once a day to keep on top of your mouth health. Mouthwash can also help mitigate bad breath.

8. Schedule an Offline Break

Scrolling through your phone is a great way to pass the time. However, some people find themselves too engrossed with their screens. Negative content could negatively impact your mood, and there are also troubles with eye strain and dry eyes. 

Learn to go offline. The American Optometric Association suggests taking at least a 15-minute break for every two hours spent on the phone. You can spend the time destressing in another way, like journaling or doing your skin care. 

9. Socialize 

People often forget about their social health when it comes to their well-being. However, socializing makes an impact, primarily when you work alone or self-isolate. Consider heading out to the grocery store, library or a similar location to be around people.

Try contacting a family member or friend and just check in. Even taking just a few minutes out of your day already makes a big difference. You can even plan your next get-together soon. 

10. Listen to Music

Play a favorite song or album at least once a day. Listening to music can decrease your anxiety and shift your mood for the better. Some people even use it as a form of therapy when dealing with certain health conditions. Blast your playlist or put on the radio in the background to discover a new song the old-fashioned way.

11. Take a Nap

There are few things better than a rejuvenating nap in the middle of the day. It helps you reset your energy for the rest of your plans. Just remember to set an alarm before you doze off. A nap should only be under 30 minutes to avoid entering deep sleep. Give yourself the grace to rest while maintaining your overall sleep schedule at night. 

Put Your Health First

Once you start incorporating these daily habits, you’ll be surprised at how much better your quality of life is. Stay as consistent as possible and listen to what your body needs. Your health will thank you for it.