Three Ways to Transform Your Health

Three Easy Ways to Transform the Health of Your Body and Mind

It may seem difficult to lead a healthy life, but it’s actually quite simple to make a few small changes. These little alterations can quickly add up to create a healthier and happier you.

All it takes is some extra work and careful planning to get on the right track.

Know Your Gut

Every day, science is learning more and more about how important microbiomes are to our overall health, both physical and mental. When our biome, or gut bacteria, is off-kilter, we experience an array of negative effects, including weight gain, increased likelihood of cancer, a compromised immune system, poor digestion, or even the development of anxiety and depression. As such, it is in your best interest to have at least one gut-healthy meal a day. Drink a glass of kefir first thing in the morning, or add a fermented food like sauerkraut to your lunch sandwich or salad. Likewise, vary your dinners by introducing a side of kimchi, or start pickling your own vegetables to see the most benefit.

Move Your Body

We say we don’t have time to exercise, but what we mean is we don’t think it’s important to make the time. Our daily lives may leave us too tired from work, or we want to focus on other things, such as unwinding with our favorite shows or cooking for the family. However, this shouldn’t be an either-or situation, as working out can be fun and doesn’t need to feel like a chore or a burden. Go dancing with your partner, or take a hike with your children or friends on the weekend. If that seems like too much, commit to 30 minutes of walking every day. This could be a 10-minute walk around the office building before work and then a few five-minute walking breaks throughout the day. It all adds up to improved health.

Sleep Better

Not getting the right amount of sleep impacts every aspect of our lives. You may notice a lack of energy, unshakable malaise, constant sniffles, and hunger cravings that only junk food will satisfy, all of which are signs of poor sleep. It’s easy to think nothing will help, but that’s a misconception. This is one area where dedication will aid us in getting a better night of sleep. Yes, you do need to go to bed at the same hour each night. No, you cannot take your phone or laptop with you and expect to sleep well. However, these things do become easier with time, and you could find yourself developing a habit much more quickly than you expect.

You may feel like there is a lot of work ahead, but it becomes manageable if you focus on doing one thing at a time. We can’t expect our lives to improve if we don’t do something to change them, but those changes don’t need to be overwhelming. After all, little steps over time can take you exactly where you want to be.

Image courtesy of Pixabay

Guest post by Jennifer McGregor Public Health Library