There’s something about spring that makes you want to get outside and get moving. After spending the cold, frigid months falling into some not-so-healthy habits, there’s no better time to get back into the swing of things. With a ton of conflicting information floating out there, the key to success is by keeping things simple. Here are 7 simple ways to get healthy this spring (and stay that way!)
1. Eat Fresh, Whole Food
It’s far too easy to get caught up in counting carbs and calories. Instead, shift your focus to fueling your body with good, fresh food. Food is like medicine to your body. Fuel your body with nutritious foods that have as few ingredients as possible. For example, with clean proteins, fresh fruit and vegetables, and whole grains. Undoubtedly, your body will respond in a positive way. Not only that, your body will remember how to perform at its best. It actually becomes more efficient because it has that roadmap from the past. Treat your body well with delicious and healthy recipes that will keep you feeling refreshed all spring long.
2. Get Active
Getting active is the best way to jumpstart your health. The key is to find things that you enjoy and look forward to doing rather than something you’re absolutely dreading. For instance, if running isn’t your thing, try cycling or swimming. Maybe you’ll enjoy tai-chi over something like yoga. Choosing activities that make you happy, even in shorter durations, will help eliminate the “I don’t have time to workout today” excuse in your head. Anything you can do to include movement into your day will make you feel better both physically and mentally. More importantly, it’s far better than being completely stationary.
3. Get Some Zzz’s
By now you’re probably familiar with how important sleep is for your body. It’s when all the essential healing, repairing, and replenishing happens. With hectic, overscheduled lives, sometimes getting those 8 hours of rest is easier said than done. If you really want to step up your health game, prioritizing sufficient sleep each night is a great place to start. Try creating a nighttime routine for yourself to help with the winding down process, like turning off all electronics and heading to bed at a set time. your body will thank you.
4. Find Your Purpose
Getting healthier doesn’t have to only be about losing weight. Maybe you want more energy and to move better, or simply just feel good about yourself. Identifying your purpose behind getting fit will help keep you motivated and stay on track. You’ll be far more likely to squeeze in some physical activity, even a quick walk around the neighborhood, and have the willpower to choose healthier food over-processed junk food.
5. Shift Your Mindset
Eating nutritious meals is often met with a deep sigh and thought of as a punishment. Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to suffer and give up all of the things you love in order to see results. If you hate snacking on raw vegetables, try adding them to a dish you already love, like goulash or Mediterranean salad. Instead of parting ways with your beloved peanut butter cups, munch on apple slices topped with nut butter and a few mini chocolate morsels. Check out the healthy food swaps article for some inspiration! Shifting your mindset will do wonders for your overall health.
6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
One of the simplest ways to achieve a healthier you is by drinking more water. Not only does proper hydration refuels your body, but it also boosts your energy, nourishes the skin, and aids digestion, just to name a few. Keep a water bottle handy wherever you go so you can easily drink some more H2O. Check out this article to learn how to improve your hydration game.
7. Grab A Buddy
Lastly, many people find that sharing their goals with friends and family is a powerful motivator to continue making healthy decisions. Vocalizing your aspirations and challenges that you’re facing allows others to support and encourage you to stick with it through even the toughest times. Who knows, you may even inspire a friend or coworker to join along in your journey. Having an exercise buddy is a great way to stay accountable and committed.
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