If you feel that your health is not the best that it could be, or perhaps you wish that you were fitter and in better shape, then now is the time to take matters into your own hands and begin to make some lasting improvements to your overall health and wellness. As we age, our bodies can no longer cope with eating a poor diet, being tired and stressed, and your negative mindset and approach to life might need something of a boost. Worry not, however, as you can make lasting changes to your health by keeping a few simple factors in mind.
If you are worried about any lasting aches and pains or feel that something is not quite right, then your first stop should be a consultation with your local health practitioner or doctor. Be sure to discuss any issues that you are having and do mention a history of illness in your family if you worry that this affects you. During your visit, you can expect your blood pressure and cholesterol to be monitored, in addition to checking your weight and reflexes. If you do need to slim down, then don’t panic or worry. With dedicated effort and willpower, you will soon shift a few pounds. Make sure that you ask for additional blood work or tests to be taken if you are feeling under the weather, as this could be a sign that you are suffering from a more serious health condition. Visiting the doctor is just your first step to getting your health and wellness back on track.
Mindset and mental health
If you are finding it hard to cope with your job and day to day, or become upset, cranky, emotional and irritable at the slightest issues, then this could be a sign that you are suffering from stress and fatigue. It is crucial that you address your mindset before this develops into a more serious health condition, in particular, if you have suffered from mental health problems or depression in the past. Take time to do things that make you feel good, such as going for a long walk, reading a good book or even catching up with friends. You may also want to consider having a digital detox and switching off from the world for a few hours or days if possible. If you are looking for alternate ways to relax, then consider using essential oils to help you slow down and unwind naturally. You could also consider using breathing techniques to help you to disconnect, as the ideal solution to getting high without drugs. Make sure that you keep tabs on your emotions and do seek help if you feel that you need a little support and guidance along the way. It is far better to let others know that you are unwell than suffer in silence.
Rethink your diet
Do you have a serious coffee habit? Perhaps you cannot start the day without a large Starbucks and doughnut on the way to work? Maybe you are concerned that you are eating too many processed foods, or perhaps it is a direct result of this that your digestive system is less than happy. This is a sign that it is time for you to rethink and address your diet and eating habits. If you are always eating while you are on the go, then this could be seriously affecting your digestion. Instead of rushing your meals, sit down and take time to chew and enjoy each and every mouthful. Make sure too that you fill up your plate with large portions of fresh fruit and vegetables, as these provide excellent and nutritious sources of fiber, vitamins and essential minerals. If you are eating a diet that is high in meat, then you may also want to cut back and choose alternate sources of protein. Try replacing red meat with fresh fish, or omelets, and consider going vegetarian for a few days each week. Finally, if you are eating a diet that is full of takeout and processed food, then you are going to need to start cooking and preparing dishes at home as these will have a lower salt, sugar and calorie content. Aim to get your entire family involved and you will all enjoy cooking up a feast that you can savor all together at the table. Rethink your diet, and you will notice your energy levels and mood improve.
Change your exercise routine
If you have not seen an improvement in your fitness levels despite working out on a regular basis or are failing to lose weight, then you could be stuck at an exercise plateau. Try shaking up your workout and get out of your comfort zone, to ensure that you get the results that you desire. If you usually spend hours in the gym, then try lifting heavier weights to improve your muscle tone and shift stubborn body fat. If you normally enjoy aerobics classes, then why not take your regime outdoors and go for a jog with a friend, or try a weekend hike instead? Be resourceful and make the most of the great outdoors or facilities that you have on your doorstep. You do not need an expensive gym membership, and this should not be an excuse, to making lasting improvements to your workout and exercise routine.
If you are looking to make lasting changes to your health, then start small. Begin by visiting the doctor to discuss any aches or pains, and do consider further tests. Address your mental health and try to gain a positive mindset. Make sure that you also rethink your diet and up your fiber levels, while cutting down on calories and processed foods. Finally, get active and shake up your workouts so that you can get the results that you desire. Over time you will notice that you feel better and enjoy sticking to your new routine, meaning that you will be making changes to your health without you even realizing it.
