A lot of people ask, but what is being “healthy”, really? It’s subjective because being healthy can be mean many different things to many different people, so we wanted to keep things general and share this guide with you all! We all have different needs, so we don’t recommend following this by heart, or diving in head first into the next dieting fad because the human body has been around for thousands of years and these so-called “miracle sensations” are never anything more than temporary buzz that fades away as fast as they surface.
So for safe, honest tips, you can check out this guide to living a longer, healthier life!
Get Plenty of Exercise
Like general health, exercise is fairly subjective and can vary quite a bit. It can mean anything from taking a 20-minute stroll in the park, to running a marathon and everything in between. So what’s the right amount for you?
It depends on your goals. Hardcore fitness certainly isn’t for everyone and we don’t recommend spending time on doing things you absolutely hate. We feel it’s best to do as much as you are comfortable with. It usually helps to find something you enjoy doing, such as walking the dog or playing golf without a cart. Your body will thank you when you maintain a stronger physical shape as you age, not to mention the neurological benefits associated with regular cardiovascular activities.
Make Nutrition a Priority
Think of your body like a car and your brain as the passenger. The better the fuel you put in your car, the longer it will run and the better the oil you keep, the better your engine will work. It’s the same thing with your body because our anatomy comes down to chemistry.
Our bones, muscles, organs, etc. all rely on certain vitamins and nutrients (chemicals) to perform their individual duties. Lacking enough gas (electricity) in your car’s fuel tank is like lacking enough calories in your body. For example, if you lack enough potassium, magnesium and/or iron, your blood won’t be able to transport enough oxygen throughout your body and your organs will pay the price.
We’re not saying you should be a “health nut”, just to make sure you’re getting what your body needs from the food you consume. Though some things can be difficult to get enough of, especially for people with busy schedules, so we would recommend high-quality supplements only when you can’t get your nutrition from regular food!
Have Your Caloric Intake Reflect Your Lifestyle
There’s no universal amount of calories you should consume. Everyone is unique because our lifestyles and schedules are different. You recommended caloric intake, of course, varies depending on how active you are and how much “fuel” you need.
Make Time for Leisure
Leisure is probably the most underrated part of a healthy lifestyle. When it comes down to it, people are happier when they have time to do things they enjoy. Putting aside the physical benefits if your leisure activities are active, the mental aspect is huge. Engaging in hobbies allows people to destress and free up their minds, which has a great long-term impact of quality “downtime”.
Experience The Great Outdoors
Ok, this doesn’t mean you have to be one with the rainforest. Though it is advantageous to get some sunlight and spend some quality time outside, at least a few hours per week (season pending). The Vitamin D does a large part in releasing Serotonin throughout the body to create better moods. Looking for some hair restoration? More sunlight will lead to a healthy scalp and healthy glowing hair!
Manage Your Time Wisely
Your time is what you have every day. It’s important to make every minute count to get the very most of every day.
Stress is one of the biggest killers of happiness. Managing your priorities ahead of time is a great way to avoid any last-minute (stressful) occurrences.
Manage Your Time Wisely
Let’s make this simple: your body needs water. The same way your muscles and organs need nutrients to function, they need water as well. Hydration allows your bloodstream to also transport more oxygen and allow your body to do what it does best.
Looking for other benefits? Your mouth won’t be dry, so plaque won’t form for healthier teeth! Your kidneys will be able to filter toxins and cleanse your body, your body will stay cool and skin will be more clear.
Drink plenty of water!
Indulge in Moderation
We all have our vices, just make sure to use moderation. A little of an unhealthy thing is obviously much less harmful and helps to avoid further temptations
Going back to dieting, for example, this might mean cutting back on trans fats, sugars, sodium carbs, etc. That doesn’t mean take them away, it means to evaluate what your body needs and consider the possibility that less can be more for your long-term health. The same is to be said with enjoying an alcoholic beverage, a cigar, or anything else. Even an excess of exercise can be har,mful so just remember – moderation!
