Health Hacks for a Healthier You

There are so many ways to improve our health that it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Exercise, diet, lifestyle, and emotional health are all important. Getting healthier in every way is a great goal, but changing your habits and your lifestyle is something that takes time, and something you need to do in stages to be sure you're successful. Luckily, there are many small habits and changes you can add to your day that can boost your health without overwhelming you. Use some of these health hacks for a healthier and happier you.

Commit to Getting Quality Sleep

Sleep is an essential part of our health that we so often overlook. Trying to make time for work, family, friends, hobbies, exercise, and all of our responsibilities can leave us feeling short on time to rest.

Don't ever let your schedule impact your ability to get a good night's sleep. If you aren't well rested, you'll have less energy each day, and may tend to rely on naps and snacks to perk yourself up. No one can operate without enough rest, and getting into a good sleeping schedule is essential to maintaining your long term health.

Speaking of Which... Shut Those Screens Off 30 Minutes Before Bed

So many of us are guilty of going to bed with our phone or tablet in hand to do some scrolling before we go to sleep. But having that bright light in your eyes can disrupt your sleep rhythms, make it harder to fall asleep, and lead to less beneficial sleep overall.

This is a very simple hack that ensures you get the quality rest you need, and also helps deter you from accidentally scrolling through Instagram for three hours before bed.

Eat Breakfast As Soon As You Can Each Morning

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day for a reason. It is important that you start the day with a healthy meal, and the benefits are greater if you eat within a half hour of waking up.

Keeping to this schedule gives your metabolism a boost for the day, adds to your energy, and can help give you the boost you need to start your day off right every morning. It might be tempting to just grab a cup of coffee, but your body needs this healthy energy so you can perform at your best.

Make Sure You Get Enough Vitamins

It can be hard to maintain a diet that delivers absolutely everything your body needs. Vitamins and supplements are an amazing way to be sure your body has everything you need, but you should strive to get everything you need from your food—with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables as part of every day.

Cut Down On Sugar

It can be so tempting to rely on sugar for a quick energy or mood boost, especially if we are feeling stressed or not getting enough rest. Sugar (especially refined sugar) has impacts on your teeth, your energy levels, and how your whole body functions.

Try to rely on healthy snacks and proteins, and cut down on the sugar intake. If you're having less of it, you'll only enjoy sweet treats more!

Make a Healthy Meal Plan, and Stick To It

Breakfast aside, a healthy and consistent diet is key to maintaining your health. Life is hectic, and it can be so difficult to stick to a healthy eating plan. If you often find yourself panicking and grabbing unhealthy snacks at the last moment, or unsure each day what you'll be eating, you might be surprised at how much a meal plan can impact your health.

Planning ahead gives you control of your calorie intake, lets you ensure you get all the nutrients you need, and gives you the opportunity to ensure your energy is on an even keel throughout the day. This planning can do wonders for your health and for your wallet, and is one of the best health hacks for a healthier you!

Cut Down On Negative Self-Talk

Do you tend to berate yourself if you've made a mistake or not accomplished something? It is important to hold yourself accountable for your actions, but it is not healthy to beat yourself up, shame yourself, or think of yourself in negative terms you would never use to describe someone else.

Your mental health is tied to your physical health, and it is important that you be your own best cheerleader to maintain the best possible mental and physical health.

Make Sure You Take 10,000 Steps Per Day

It can be hard to exercise regularly, and one easy way to work on your fitness throughout the day is to stick to a health goal. Experts say that 10,000 steps is the minimum exercise needed to stay healthy. There are many free pedometers you can download, or you can step up the challenge by getting a Fitbit and challenging your friends!

Step counting is an easy way to grab some quick exercise whenever there is space in your busy schedule, and gives you lots of chances to get outside for a break.

Take a Rest Day Each Week

Life is busier than ever, and it can be hard to convince yourself to take the time to rest and recuperate each week. But we all need a break so we can function at our best. Be sure to take time away from your work, responsibilities, and take some time doing something you enjoy.

You might initially feel guilty about this, but it is absolutely essential to maintaining long term health and balance.

Surround Yourself With People That Motivate and Inspire You

Being surrounded by toxic and negative people can bring down your mood, and leave you with less energy. People often make the mistake of allowing people who are bad for them to take up too much of their time. If you have friends that make you feel bad, or people who drag you down, do everything you can to minimize your contact with them, and distance yourself from them emotionally.

Sometimes, we are in a situation where we are forced to interact with this type of person. Surround yourself with motivated and positive people whenever you can, and these people will be able to take up less of your time and energy. Good, balanced people will encourage your growth, and encourage you to do things that are good for your health. You'll feel better emotionally, which will give you more energy to reach all of your health goals.