Enhance Your Existing Health Routines With These 5 Steps

Achieving better health is a significant priority for a lot of people. If you are among that group, then you know that it is often much easier to say than do. One of the best ways to achieve success is by establishing a health routine. Whether you have one that needs fine-tuning or looking to get one set up, these steps will help you move in the right direction.

1. Fine Tune Your Routine

If you are like most people, your health routine is more of a guideline than an actual routine. Changing that and making it something you can stick to will help you achieve goals much faster and more consistently. If you struggle with establishing a routine and have looked at possible solutions, you have probably heard of Le-Vel. You may have been left wondering: "What is Thrive?" It is a system that incorporates supplements and lifestyle modifications along with a supportive community that many people find helpful for establishing a healthy routine.

2. Head to Bed Earlier

Lack of sleep can quickly derail even the best-intentioned wellness routine. Experts recommend that adults get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Failure to do that can result in sleep deprivation in as few as four days, the symptoms of which include listlessness, fatigue, confusion, irritability and a decreased ability to concentrate. Instead of stressing over your lack of sleep, which will aggravate the problem, work to fix it.

Set a time that you want to be in bed for each night. Then, make a point to unplug from electronics about an hour earlier. This will allow your eyes and brain a chance to unwind and switch gears. Keep your bedroom a few degrees cooler than the rest of the house, if possible, to encourage more restful slumber. Removing light sources and adding room darkening window treatments can also be helpful.

3. Drink More Water

Water is a basic necessity for survival. However, you can survive on a less than ideal amount of fluids. Most adults need to take in between 11.5 and 15.5 cups of fluids each day. That doesn't have to come from water alone, however, since plenty of healthy food options also contain liquid. In fact, most fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of water.

You should work toward drinking plenty of water throughout the day, though. Aim for at least eight glasses of water on most days, and increase that if you are doing anything that increases perspiration. Keep a refillable bottle or cup with you, so drinking water becomes a habit. It is also a great way to keep track of how much you are drinking.

4. Practice Moderation

While people tend to go to extremes, especially when they are talking about health and wellness, moderation is generally the best way to move forward consistently. Taking anything to an extreme can lead to a lack of nutrients and burnout. Allow yourself to indulge a little here and there. It helps you feel satisfied and avoid guilt.

5. Stay Engaged

Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Plus, addressing one often leads to improving the other. That is why it is essential that you take steps to stay engaged with friends and family throughout your health and wellness journey. That doesn't mean you have to join a gym or fitness center, either. There are plenty of opportunities to connect with others who share your interests. Here are just a few of the many options you might consider:

• Join a sport or workout group
• Take a class or seminar
• Attend live cooking demonstrations
• Sign up for a recreational club

You can establish a routine that works to move you closer to your health goals. Be consistent, get enough sleep, stay hydrated and find a system that works for you for the best results.