Ever since we became aware of our consciousness, humans have pondered over the question of what it means to be truly happy. Maybe the answer isn’t as straightforward as you think. Perhaps the best way to live a happier, healthier life is to find out what happiness isn’t.
Whether we like it or not, our daily habits influence both our vitality and mindset. In essence, you know exactly what you need to do to live a more fulfilling life – you just haven’t done it yet.
Let’s go over the best ways to live a healthy life by helping you change a few simple habits.
What is The Best Way to Live a Healthy Life?
If you didn’t already have enough motivation to get happier – you’re about to have a whole lot more. According to an article in Berkley, happiness and health may be intrinsically linked. Happiness can lead to better health. People who are happy and approach life with a positive mindset can maintain better physical and mental health when compared to those who have little enthusiasm for life. In addition, happiness has been linked to preserving your youthful appearance.
So, in essence, the happier you are, the healthier you are too.
Happier, Healthier Life Habits to Adopt in 2021
1. Small Changes = Big Differences
Forgoing self-care is easy to do in such a fast-paced world, but TLC is not negotiable. Most of the time, we think we don’t have time for self-care, but in reality, we actually do. It’s about spending more time on things that refuel us. Instead of spending 30 min to an hour every day on social media, spend your time doing something that brings you joy, even if it’s every alternate day. The key is to work it into your schedule. Watch an inspirational video before you start your day, make use of an essential oil diffuser in the evenings, sit in stillness with a cup of tea – do what works for you.
2. Increase Your Selenium Intake
You are probably familiar with the expression: you are what you eat. Well, it’s true, and you can – in theory – eat your way to happiness. You probably already know that your food choices have a direct impact on your overall physical health. However, you should also be eating with your mood in mind. Selenium is an essential mineral and a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress. It can be found in foods such as brazil nuts, fish, turkey, and sunflower seeds.
Incorporating more selenium-rich foods into your diet can leave you feeling happier and healthier over the long term.
It also helps to keep simple carbs (foods high in sugar and starch) to a minimum. This energy surge is short and eventually crashes. Whereas complex carbs, like whole grains and vegetables, are better. In addition, foods high in protein, such as dairy, lean meat, and legumes, release dopamine and boost energy.
Changing up your food choices is another simple habit you can adopt starting tomorrow.
3. Move Your Body In a Way That Works for You
Exercise is not just for your body. It’s for your body, mind, and soul too! Regular exercise helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression, while also boosting self-esteem and happiness. Even just a tiny amount of physical activity can make a big difference.
The idea of exercise is not one that appeals to everyone. However, exercise can be whatever you want it to be. As long as you’re moving, your body and mind will benefit. Love music and socializing? Why not take up a new dance class – that way, you get to experience two of your favorite things and get your blood pumping too! Don’t have enough time to get to gym in the mornings? Follow a 20 minute yoga video on YouTube.
The bottom line is, there are countless ways to move your body, you just need to find what works for you.
4. Drink Your Way to Better Health
By that, we mean H20! We all know that staying hydrated is good for our body, but most of us probably don’t realize just how vital hydration is. Every system in the human body counts on it. In fact, two-thirds of the adult human body is made up of water. The importance of good old H20 can never be overstated. Staying hydrated is not only linked to maintaining and improving brain and bodily functions, it also helps to balance your mood and reduce stress. So have a glass now and make sure you keep at it. Remind yourself to stay hydrated with the help of a water tracking app like Aqualert or MyWater.
5. Hack Your Sleep Cycles
It comes as no surprise that getting quality sleep is vital to good health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep every night. If you find yourself craving a nap during the day or feeling like you’re in a fog, your body might be telling you it needs more rest. Establish a better sleep routine and stick to it.
A great way to start a healthy sleep routine is through the assistance of sleep apps. Apps like Headspace combine meditation and “sleep casts” to improve sleep routines, while Slumber offers a combination of experiences to help you fall into a deep, well, slumber. Sleep Cycle might be beneficial if you want to receive data on your sleep patterns.
6. Pursue Your Passions!
Maybe this next one is a no brainer, but in reality, how much time do you spend doing the things you love? In fact, you should be doing something you love every single day. There has never been a better time to take up a new hobby. Why not cultivate your culinary skills with some free cooking online cooking classes? Or if you’ve always wanted to write a book, then enroll in a fiction writing course.
Consider this activity a brain reset, a moment of both indulgence and importance. After all, this is the thing that brings you the most enjoyment, so why not consider it a major priority in your daily schedule? Whether it’s your time to get creative, cook, or even doing cartwheels in the garden – pursuing your passions will keep you happier and healthier.
7. Practice Gratitude
Did you know that simply being grateful can boost your mood and more? Well, it’s a fact. A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology discovered that practicing gratitude can significantly impact feelings of happiness. Begin by acknowledging one thing you’re grateful for every day. Start while you’re brushing your teeth, and keep an eye out for other pleasant things in your life. The taste of the first cup of coffee, your colleague’s silly little joke, and the warmth of the sun on your skin. No matter how little these things may be, they are things to appreciate. An excellent way to keep track of these things is by starting a journal.
In fact, journaling is an excellent way to organize your thoughts, reflect on your feelings, and plan. You don’t need to be a wordsmith to benefit from the practice – it can be a simple as jotting down a few thoughts before bed. Apps like Day One or Five Minute Journal make it super simple to get started.
8. Seek Out A Helping Hand
If you’re not feeling quite like yourself and have some things on your mind, consider seeking out professional help. A therapist can help you get to the root of the problem by providing you with a safe space to open up about your feelings, thoughts, and circumstances. Air Doctor can connect you with a qualified therapist in your area so you can chat to someone who can help you constructively and healthily.
9. A Little Kindness Goes A Long Way
Being kind to another person, whether you know them or not, can go a long way in terms of changing your own headspace. Complimenting someone, smiling at a stranger, leaving a note of encouragement for someone to read, or even giving back to those less fortunate – all these things can place you in a better headspace. And if anything else, that small act of kindness makes the world a better place.
10. Channel Your Green Thumbs
Spending time among the greenery and in nature always makes people feel calmer. So surround yourself with more plants – in fact, put a plant in every room! Houseplants purify our air, reduce pollutants, increase humidity, and remove carbon dioxide! Or why not plant a small garden? Tending to a garden can minimize stress and reduces anxiety, depression, and your risk of heart disease! Time to head to the nursery!
Stepping Into a Happier Life
Happiness looks different for everyone. Irrespective of your version of true happiness, living a healthier, happier life is within your reach – all it requires is small, but consistent changes.
