The chaos of our everyday lives makes it difficult to nurture a healthy, happy, balanced lifestyle. But it does not need to be difficult; a balanced life is simply a healthy mind and a healthy body. Small changes in your routine can make a big difference, and most of them boil down to this:
“Eat healthily, work out regularly, drink water, sleep properly, and repeat.”
There will be days that are more balanced than others, and that is totally okay! The important thing is that you incorporate small, easy changes that are easy to pick back up if you get off track.
1. Water
Lots and lots of water. Water helps flush the impurities from your blood, making your body function more efficiently. Our body is made up of 60% water. Humans can live for days without food, but not without water. Drinking an adequate amount of water every day helps digestion and weight management. The primary complaint about water intake is taste. That’s an easy fix! Try infusing your water with fresh lemon, lime, or orange slices. You can also add a little juice. If you just can’t do water all day long, go for fresh juices from your favorite fruits.
2. Exercise
Exercise does not have to be intense daily workouts. Most experts suggest doing some type of exercise at least a few days a week. Anything that raises your heart rate is perfect such as brisk walking, light jogging, yoga, or a bike ride. Regular exercise helps regulate your mood, burns calories and gives your mind a rest from the daily overload of information, schedules, and activities.
3. Healthy Eating
It is important to have a good relationship with your food. Diet plans are not good relationships. The best approach is consistent healthy eating choices and habits that you can maintain for a lifetime. You and food are together for life; make it a relationship you enjoy. Try new foods, experiment with recipes. Keep it simple, keep it clean, and keep it healthy, and you will reap the benefits for years to come.
4. Move Your Body
Perform a few squats, crunches, or push-ups daily, something that activates your major muscle groups. Just as vigorous exercise is good for your heart, calisthenics is good for your bones and muscles. They keep your joints engaged and lubricated, and can prevent the onset of things like arthritis or osteoporosis.
5. Stretch and Easy
Stretching improves flexibility, promotes muscle health, and prevents injury. Five to ten minutes of stretching is enough for your body to enjoy the rest of the day. Stretch whenever you feel you need it—pre-workout, post-workout, no workout!
6. Positive Thinking
My mother used to tell me that it is all in your mind. Your thoughts are the primary source of your happy or unhappy unhealthy life. Create mantras for yourself, and repeat them to yourself every day. For example, “You are one healthy and beautiful person inside and out” or take one from Bruno Mars: “Girl you’re amazing just the way you are.”