Actionable Steps to Improve Your Health and Wellbeing
If you have a hectic lifestyle, or you’re going through a tough time, your health might not be your number one priority. Many of us take our health for granted, and we don’t realize just how important it is to feel happy and healthy until we experience illness, trauma or injury. It’s not always possible to prevent every symptom or avoid incidents or accidents, but there are steps you can take to improve your health and wellbeing.
Keeping up to date with health checks
Be honest. When was the last time you went to a dentist or you booked an eye test? If you’re not up to date with routine health checks, or you’ve been putting off going for a hearing examination, now is the time to start making appointments and looking after your body and mind. Many common illnesses, for example, high blood pressure, don’t present obvious symptoms and changes in vision and hearing loss can occur gradually. If you have concerns, look online for a hearing loss guide and don’t hesitate to book a hearing test or an eye exam if you’ve noticed that you’re straining to read signs or you’re asking people to repeat themselves frequently. If you get into the habit of attending regular appointments, this will ensure that any issues are identified as early as possible.
Moving your body more
Exercise is one of the most potent natural remedies for stress, anxiety, low levels of energy and motivation and depression, and it also offers a host of physiological benefits. Health experts recommend 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. You can include a raft of activities from hiking, cycling and swimming to jogging, gym workouts, dancing, climbing, ice skating and team sports. When your body moves, your serotonin and dopamine levels increase and your body releases endorphins. Even if you’re struggling with that final mile or the last few minutes of a circuit training or spin session, you should feel amazing afterwards.
Protecting and nourishing your mental health
Many of us devote time and effort to our physical health, but our mental and physical wellbeing are interlinked. Even if you’re happy and content, there are things you can do to protect and nourish your mental health. Take time out to relax and unwind, exercise, spend time with people who make you smile, talk, indulge hobbies and interests, be creative and try to be kind to yourself. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to reach out or open up if you’re struggling or you’ve got things on your mind and learn to identify triggers so that you can act to prevent stress or anxiety from spiraling. Sleep is essential for wellbeing, so try and establish a routine that enables you to get enough rest on a daily basis and ensure your bedroom is a tranquil, soothing space.
If you’re keen to take better care of your body and mind, you don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle or make drastic changes. These actionable steps will get you off to a positive start.