Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can sometimes seem like an ever more complicated and daunting daily task. Try following these simple steps to point yourself in the right direction towards balanced physical and mental health for the long term.

  1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Adding a slice of fresh lemon or lime can aid in naturally detoxifying the body and to help increase bowel function.
  2. Snack on raw nuts and seeds. Eating unsalted almonds, walnuts, pumkin seeds, and sunflower seeds between meals are a qreat way to prevent excessive hunger and overeating during regular meals.
  3. Avoid precessed, sugary, and fried foods as well as limiting caffeine. Instead, try to incorporate more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish into your diet.
  4. Try to get 8 hours of sleep per night. Follow a regular sleep schedule in order to present your body and mind with natural sleep triggers that help you to fall asleep.
  5. Try to fit in 20 minutes of exercise per day. Taking the stairs whenever possible or simply leave the car at home. It does not need to be complicated. For added fun, check your posture as you pass by objects that are vertical such as a doorway.
  6. Get outside more often. Fresh air and sunlight can be marvelous for your mood and stress levels.
  7. Breathe deeply a few times per day. Try to set aside 2 to 5 minutes a few times per day to focus on breathing. Use your abdominal muscles by sticking out your stomach (tummy breathing) to help your diaphragm fully inflate your lungs with air.
  8. Express your emotions. Talk to a friend, write it down, or call a family member.
  9. Enjoy life each day as best you can. Have a fun activity planned each day.
  10. Focus on what you do well. Every night try writing down 3 things that you have accomplished and are proud of. You might be pleasantly surprised at the list that accumulates.