Healthy habits for a better life

Healthy habits start in our childhood years, even before we were born! Every person should have good habits from a young age so they can get their lives back on track if something happens along the way. Here are some tips for healthy habits.

Sleep

Sleep helps the body repair and rejuvenate at night, making us well-rested during the day. As humans sleep for roughly eight hours each night, being deprived of adequate rest can make us feel sluggish and tired throughout the day. However, not getting enough sleep can have serious consequences. Getting adequate sleep may help boost brain function while helping the body heal from illness and injuries. 

Exercise

Exercise helps keep our bodies strong and fit, and can improve mental clarity. Regular exercise enhances mood, boosts self-esteem, and increases concentration. In addition to these physical benefits, exercise lowers blood pressure and reduces anxiety levels. Being physically active requires little effort, but having a goal to work toward motivates us to stick with it. 

Meditation

Meditation is often associated with Zen Buddhism and Hinduism, but meditation is practiced around the world. People who practice meditation develop focus and peace of mind through deep breathing and clearing their minds. Meditating regularly may reduce anxiety and depression, and even improve memory if done correctly. 

Gratitude

Gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to connect with others and ourselves. When we acknowledge what we already have, we are grateful for everything that makes us happy—our family, friends, pets, food, etc. Gratitude cultivates empathy and fosters kindness. A lack of gratitude makes people selfish and unkind, robbing them of opportunities to spread love and happiness. Cultivating gratitude doesn't require money or material things, just a willingness to count blessings instead of burdens. 

Healthy Eating

The human body consists mainly of water, fats, protein, and carbs. These four ingredients provide the building blocks necessary for the body to operate properly. Each provides a different type of fuel that our cells use to perform certain tasks. Fats and proteins allow for energy storage, while carbs supply quick bursts of energy that last for several minutes. Proteins are made mostly of amino acids and fats from fatty acids. 

Cleaning Your Body 

Cleaning your body is a big deal since dirt and bacteria build up over time inside your body causing sickness. There are many ways to get rid of germs and kill bacteria, including hand washing, using antibacterial soap, bathing, and showering. Cleansing your body also includes cleaning out your colon. You should try eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, and cutting down on sugar. 

Breathing Techniques

Breathing techniques are great for relaxation and relieving stress, especially during hectic times. Deep breathing involves taking long, slow breaths from the belly rather than from the chest. This technique calms the mind and quiets the nerves. Slow breathing also relaxes the muscles and releases tension. 

Stay calm

Stress affects our physical and emotional states and makes us feel anxious, depressed, angry, frustrated, nervous, or exhausted. Stress can make us think we are facing challenges when they are not real, and it might affect our judgment and our choices. Take time to relax and de-stress. Exercise, meditate, pray, spend time with family and friends, volunteer, read, listen to music, write down gratitude lists, engage in hobbies, watch movies, and go to bed early.

Be Social

Social interaction is good for our health. Contacting people who live nearby and share similar interests promotes wellness and reduces feelings of loneliness. Join clubs, organizations, and sports teams. Volunteer to assist others. Find out if your local community offers free classes about nutrition and exercise.