Taking a walk around the block, sharing moments with loved ones, eating slowly: these are just a few well-being tips to put into practice in order to make time for yourself and to be in better health throughout the year. Check out the health benefits of the following resolutions.
1. Make Time
We often talk of the importance of taking care of one’s health on a daily basis, but many rarely make it their priority. Yet doing so comes with many benefits, such as stress reduction, better concentration and personal relationships. Take the time, ideally 20 to 30 minutes, to read, meditate, stretch, or go for a walk.
2. Maintain Relationships
This year, be sure to increase the number of times you meet up with people, given that an active social life is a key to good health. People who are socially blessed are less likely to be depressed, as they can count on their network for support during trying times.
Studies have shown that people have a reduced risk of chronic illnesses when they have significant social ties, with a better quality of life, and they generally tend to live much longer.
3. Cook More Often
When cooking at home, you have better control over the quality of ingredients used as well as the serving size. You therefore end up consuming fresher, less processed ingredients. For these reasons, try to cook new recipes as of January and bring new flavours and variety to your meals.
4. Take the Time to Eat
Many have a tendency to rush out of the house in the mornings without eating breakfast, consume meals in front of a screen or eat dinner while watching TV. When you take the time to sit at the table without any distractions and eat slowly and consciously, you’ll be more attentive to what you’re ingesting, to textures and flavours, etc. What’s more, eating a meal with family or colleagues helps to build and maintain bonds.
5. Stay Hydrated
It’s recommended for an adult to drink approximately 2 litres of liquid per day, and to prioritize water. Natural carbonated water, tea and herbal tea* are also a few healthful options to consider. Eating foods that are high in water (like vegetables and fruit), hydrating oneself after a workout and when it’s hot are also a few best practices.
*Source: Health Promotion – Nutritious Beverages to Stay Hydrated All Day Long. Government of Canada.
6. Learn to Manage Stress
The negative impact of stress on our health and well-being is undeniable. Trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, anxiety, weakening of the immune system, etc. It’s crucial to find the means to better manage it. Meditation, deep breathing and yoga are just a few things to do daily to better help combat stress.
7. Get Active Often
2 hours and 30 minutes is the recommended amount of time per week you must be active in order to achieve health benefits.* And the good news is that it’s possible to stay active without having to make your way to a gym. What’s important is to practice an activity you love and to establish a routine. You can begin with a daily walk around your neighbourhood, which is a great way to take a break and step away from your screen.
*Source: Tips to Get Active – Physical Activity Tips for Adults (18-64 years). Public Health Agency of Canada
8. Get Restorative Sleep
To make the most of restorative sleep, it has to not only be of sufficient length, but also of good quality. For an adult, the norm is 7 to 9 hours per night. To wake up energized and well rested, it’s recommended to establish a bedtime routine, turn screens off at least one hour before you go to sleep, and avoid eating late in the evening.
9. Zero In on Natural Health Products
Natural health products like probiotics, vitamins and minerals, or even homeopathic remedies help to boost your immune system and keep you in good health. A naturopath can help you in-store when it comes to choosing the best product.
