6 Realistic Ways to Improve Your Head-to-Toe Health
Posted by Jennifer McGregor of publichealthlibrary.org on May 03, 2022
If you’re like most people, you want to have overall health and wellness for life. The problem many people face, however, is implementing a lifestyle that fosters their physical, mental and emotional health. Whether it’s because work and life seem to consume all of your time and energy, or because unhealthy habits have been in place for a long time, living healthy can be challenging. But by incorporating the following six habits into your life, you can improve your health and well-being from head to toe.
1. Get covered
One of the first steps is to make sure you’re staying up-to-date on your health. Along with making (and going to) regular checkup appointments with your physician, you want to be certain you have the best insurance plan for your needs. The details of plans can change each year, so it’s always important to understand what your health plan offers so that you can get the most out of it. There may be benefits available that you have yet to take advantage of!
2. Prioritize dental health
Too many people neglect their dental health because they simply don’t understand the impact it can have on overall well-being. But your dental health is connected to other aspects of your body and health, including your mental health. Poor oral health can contribute to mental illnesses like depression and, conversely, poor dental health is often a consequence of such mental illnesses. Caring for your teeth and gums can go a long way toward improving your overall health and well-being, and you can start by scheduling regular checkups at the dentist, getting any necessary dental work done, and eating a healthy diet.
3. Eat better
A good, balanced diet is critical for a healthy body, and making little changes to your eating habits can make a big difference. For instance, try eating out less and cooking at home more. This way, you have more control over how much sodium, sugar, and fat you eat. Generally speaking, eating more vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in healthy fats and protein is a good starting point.
4. Get organized
We’re wired to thrive in an organized environment as opposed to a cluttered one. Too much accumulated stuff laying around often leads to stress as well as a lack of focus and productivity. Clutter can also negatively affect physical health; all that stress can make you feel inclined toward bad habits like smoking or even forgoing your workout routine. The thought of cleaning up the clutter may feel stressful in itself, but if you approach your organizing one room at a time, and then clean your home thoroughly afterward, your mind and body will thank you in the long term.
5. Make your fitness interesting
Regular exercise is essential, but it can be difficult to maintain a solid routine amid life’s demands. One way to help you stick to a fitness routine and reap the most benefits is to switch things up. For example, if you’re used to walking every day in the park, plan a weekend hiking trip. If your routine consists of running on the treadmill, try running outside once a week. Also, don’t be afraid to try new activities or types of exercise (e.g., Crossfit, yoga, HIIT, swimming, tennis, etc.).
If working out at a gym doesn’t match up with your budget, you can still get in a quality workout at home. You can run or speed-walk in your neighborhood, lift weights at home or even turn to exercise videos. With the option of streaming content, you have an opportunity to enjoy just about any type of workout from the comfort of home, and you can find an abundance of activities through a variety of channels .
6. Make time for sleep and relaxation
Along with prioritizing your medical needs, eating well, staying organized, and exercising, it’s important to get enough rest. This means getting quality sleep each night, even if it requires a change in your schedule or bedtime routine; otherwise, your body and mind won’t experience the recovery and rejuvenation needed for happy and productive living. Also, carve out time for relaxing activities, whether it’s watching a movie, going to the spa, meditation, or anything else that helps you step away from your daily obligations and unwind for a moment.
Incorporating simple daily habits can make all the difference in your quest for head-to-toe health. Make sure you have the best insurance coverage for your needs and that you care for your dental health. Adopt healthy eating habits, organize your living space, keep your exercise routine interesting, and prioritize rest and relaxation. Living healthy may require you to make changes to your lifestyle, but it is a realistic goal that you can accomplish.