10 Natural Health Tips That Will Change How You Feel

Maintaining your health doesn't have to be a chore. You also don't have to resort to using chemical-laden supplements and remedies. Nature has provided a vast array of healing options that can improve your overall health and help you maintain that. These 10 tips can get you started on a natural wellness routine.

1. Spice Up Your Meals

People have been using spices and herbs to aid their health for thousands of years even if modern medicine is just starting to realize the depth of their benefits. Have fun experimenting with spices that have the most support for your health, such as garlic, turmeric and cinnamon. Uncover the difference between curcumin vs turmeric to get a better understanding of how it works in your body to reduce inflammation.

2. Embrace Nature

Spending time in nature is great for your health. It boosts immune function and promotes physical healing for starters. It also reduces anxiety and improves moods. Add to those facts that it is completely free and 100% natural and time outside becomes an ideal way to boost your health. This study revealed that two hours per week is the amount needed to start to see benefits.

3. Eat Fermented Foods

Fermentation has been used to preserve food for millennia. Finished products are rich in probiotics, or good bacteria, which can help you maintain a healthy gut. Fermented foods are also easy to digest, so your body is better able to extra nutrients from them. Try adding yogurt with live cultures, kefir or kimchi to your diet to realize the benefits.

4. Drink Water

Sodas and other sweetened drinks are loaded with sugars, flavorings and a huge chunk of calories. Swapping water for the other beverages you drink can make a big difference in your overall health. If you don't like the taste of plain water, try infusing fruit or sweet vegetables into it or opt for sparkling water to give it some zip.

5. Establish a Sleep Routine

The recommended eight hours of sleep each night might seem like a faraway dream to you, but establishing a sleep routine can help make it a reality. Decide on a time that, each day, you will start winding down and use that time to relax and prepare for sleep. Limit or avoid screen time and lower the temperature in your home to send the body a signal that bedtime is approaching. After several weeks, your body will become adjusted to the new routine and you will feel more rested.

6. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment. It helps cultivate awareness of your body and surroundings. Some research indicates it may actually alter the expression of genes that regulate a host of health conditions and sleep patterns. Learn a basic breath meditation or progressive relaxation to get started with mindfulness.

7. Try Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy goes beyond choosing scents that are pleasant, to understanding the chemical compounds within plants and how they can impact the human body. It is completely natural and has been shown to have positive health benefits when used carefully.

8. Walk Every Day

Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, but that doesn't mean it isn't effective. In fact, research shows that it may be the best thing you can do for your health. It improves cardiovascular function, boosts your mood and serves as a weight-bearing exercise for healthy bones and muscles. Try to walk for at least 10-20 minutes each day for the best effects.

9. Indulge With Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to improved heart health and lower rates of diabetes. Not to mention, it is delicious. The next time you are craving a sweet, break off a square of rich dark chocolate to satisfy it and give your health a boost.

10. Play With a Dog

Pets have a way of making you feel better. That benefit goes beyond making you smile and relieving stress. According to this study, petting a dog for just 10 minutes could impact physical health.

You can take charge of your health by incorporating natural strategies such as walking, experimenting with different spices and improving your sleep into your daily routine.