We’ve all had that moment where we decide we want to change or start something. For some of us, those decisions come quickly. We see something we want to do, and we do it. For others, however, it can be a bit more complicated.
You decide you want to make a life change, but it may come with excuses.
“I’m too busy to exercise right now.”
“The healthy grocery store is too far away.”
“I don’t want to wake up early enough to eat breakfast.”
Changing or making a new habit is never easy, and it usually takes time before you begin to see the changes. It’s not like dusting off the TV stand, where you can see the effects in seconds.
If you want to become a healthier person, there are plenty of things you can do, but sometimes those options are overwhelming. There are so many diet and exercise programs out there; it can be work to sort through them all.
Below, we’re going to outline six easy life changes you can make starting today to become a healthier, happier you.
Make a Regular Sleep Schedule
Even though you may not recognize it, your body craves a routine. A considerable part of that routine is making sure you’re getting enough sleep regularly.
You must dedicate yourself to making sure you are getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night, but more importantly, you’re going to be around the same time every night. Make sure you’re in bed by 10 PM or 11 PM, whatever you need to ensure you’re getting a full night’s rest.
One habit you could change is the amount of screen time you have before going to bed. Blue light emitted from screens has been shown to interfere with sleep patterns and makes it difficult to fall asleep. Keep your eyes away from the screen the 30 minutes before you head to bed or at the very least, install a blue light filter.
Drink More Water
Water has tons of benefits, from helping your digestion system, keeping you hydrated, boosting your metabolism, helping keep your skin soft, and much more.
Most of us aren’t drinking enough water every day, and while the exact amount varies depending on the expert you ask, the general rule of thumb tends to be about eight glasses a day. If you’re always on the go, take a water bottle with you. It’s also a great way to make sure you’re not sitting around all day to get up and grab a cup. You can also consider taking IV hydration in Sacramento, which involves delivering a blend of fluids, electrolytes, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous line. This allows for rapid and efficient hydration and can be particularly useful for individuals who are dehydrated due to illness, intense physical activity, or other factors.
Speaking of not sitting around…
Start Doing Cardio
When people think of cardio workouts, your mind may drift to some poor sap huffing and puffing on a treadmill at the gym or down your neighborhood sidewalk. Cardio from the outside looks miserable to most, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Your cardio can be an hour’s walk a day with your dog or out with your kids. Take half of your lunch break to walk around the block, listening to music, or your favorite podcast.
You don’t have to train for a triathlon to move your body. Find something that you can do to make sure you keep moving.
Shop Healthier
Yes, there are plenty of diets out there that have strict regimens you need to follow. One recipe may call for a special coconut flour that’s only available on the other side of town. Yikes!
One of the easiest and healthiest diets to pick up and follow now is the Mediterranean diet. You can find everything you need in any grocery store in the world. Lean meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts, olive oil, beans, legumes, and fish are the staples of this diet. There are plenty of delicious recipes out there waiting for you to try.
When you shop healthier, you’re going to avoid buying those unhealthy snacks and options. If you don’t buy them, you can’t eat them.
Plan Your Cheat Meals and Rest Days
Look, we know that you’re not going to turn into the Jolly Green Giant overnight. You’re human, and even the most dedicated humans need breaks.
With 21 meals over the week, choose two that you can “cheat.” Maybe it’s your best friend’s engagement party on Saturday evening or heading to dinner after a movie. Your cheat meals will taste so much better after you’ve been following a healthy eating plan.
Also, plan out your rest days. If you just started an exercise plan, this doesn’t mean you should be working out 24/7. Find a rest day, and make sure you’re letting your body recover.