What does it mean to be healthy? That depends on how you perceive wellness. Is it a certain level of physical fitness? Is it eating a balanced diet? Does emotional intelligence equate to well-being? Does your mental health take a backseat to other aspects of wellness? Defining health is difficult because of how many ways one can pursue well-being.
In general, most people want to live healthier lifestyles. It allows them to be happier, retain their independence, and continue engaging in the activities they love as they age. Plus, it can reduce some of those aches and pains that older individuals tend to experience. While there are endless ways to pursue health, there are also plenty of ways to destroy your health.
There are apparent habits that could be damaging your health such as smoking or staying inside all day. But other circumstances could be hampering your ability to lead a healthier lifestyle that is not as well known. Here are five things that might be damaging your health and holding you back.
Mold in Your Home
Water damage is one of the biggest issues that homeowners will face in terms of caring for their property. Whatever causes water to collect in your house, excess moisture creates an environment where mold can thrive. Mold in your home has multiple negative effects, including building damage and health risks. If mold is present, the air quality in your home is reduced, potentially causing respiratory problems for you and your family. Exposure can cause a bad cough, but if left untreated, long-term effects could include the development of asthma. If you ever think that the air in your home smells musty, you should order a mold inspection to improve the air quality and look after your health.
Lack of Hobbies
Mental health is a crucial part of overall wellness. If life is so busy that you never have time for yourself to engage in activities that you enjoy, then you could suffer under the weight of increased stress and anxiety. Hobbies are a great way to engage your mind, work with your hands, and relax from the busyness of your normal routines. It is scientifically proven that maintaining hobbies can promote longevity for your mental capacity, giving you a better chance of remaining independent as you age. Collect, create, discover, or do whatever activity suits your fancy to promote better mental health.
Relying on Supplements for Nutrition
Many dietary supplements advertise themselves as sources of vitamins and minerals that can make up for gaps in your diet. Doing so could be harming your nutrition intake. Vitamins and minerals are delivered to your cells much more efficiently from an actual food source rather than dietary supplements. There is no substitute for a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and nonfat dairy products. Instead, take products like Cellsentials from USANA as they are meant to be used…as a supplement. Then, they can support your healthy diet with further cellular nourishment.
Over-Exercising
Becoming a fitness nut is not always a good thing. Some people become obsessed with exercising constantly, and instead of benefitting their physical health, it can do unnecessary damage. Over-exercising can cause multiple negative side effects, including overuse injuries, consistent tiredness, depression, trouble sleeping, and not being able to perform at the same levels. All of these effects damage your body and end up reversing the positive effects of normal amounts of exercise. Talk with your doctor about how much exercise is appropriate for your age and body type so that you can avoid over-extending yourself.
Hitting the Snooze Button
The desperation to get just a little more sleep once that alarm goes off is a very strong emotion. It may be difficult to force yourself to get up after the first alarm, especially if your lifestyle requires early mornings. But hitting that snooze button is not helping you at all. Sure, you might think that ten more minutes of sleep could help, but these short bursts of rest are not productive for your body, and may even make you more tired for the rest of the day. Instead, do your best to rise after that first alarm, or at least avoid falling back asleep before you get up.
Cut Out These Unhealthy Circumstances
In your journey toward a healthier lifestyle, it is just as important to cut out negative behaviors as it is to add positive ones. Make sure that your home is clear of mold so that the air you are breathing is safe. Make time to participate in hobbies that positively engage your mind. Use supplements in addition to a healthy diet, not instead of it. Don’t exercise to the point where you are damaging your body rather than improving it, and avoid hitting the snooze button in the morning.
By getting rid of these circumstances in your life, you will be positioned to achieve better wellness for your mind, body, and soul.