It’s easy to tell people they need to be healthy but taking action to be healthy may be easier said than done. I know it’s way easier not to think about moving or eating healthy on a busy schedule, but you must find ways to prioritize your health. If you are starting on your journey or need that extra kick of motivation, here are ten ways to be healthy when you don’t want to.
Make it Fun
Instead of making health a chore, find ways to use it as a stress reliever or a fun activity with family and friends. Exercise comes in all shapes and sizes. Whether running, yoga, barre, or dance fitness, do something you enjoy doing. As long as you are moving, you’re on the right track. For more ideas, read 5 Activities That Are a Great Workout Without Feeling Like it
Sneak in Activity
If the idea of organized physical activity sounds daunting to you, think of the things you can do that get a little more steps every day without feeling like you are “working out.” For example, park a little further away from the door when going to the store, so you have to walk more. Take the stairs when there is an opportunity. In fact, according to research, people who take eight flights of stairs daily have a 33% lower risk of death than those that sit. You are doing something for yourself every day just by taking the stairs.
Drink Water
You will be amazed at how prioritizing water intake changes how you look and feel. Because our bodies are mostly made of water, we must prioritize hydration. If the only thing you can accomplish in a day is hit your water goals, you are still on the right track towards a healthier you. We help our heart function, metabolism, and performance when adequately hydrated. For more reasons, read: 7 Essential Reasons to Drink More Water
Get Enough Sleep
Do not underestimate the need for rest! Try going to sleep at the same time during the week to create a sleep schedule, just like you did as a kid. When you do not get enough sleep, you are putting unneeded stress on your body, leading to chronic conditions.
Prioritize Standing Over Sitting
People are working more sedentary jobs and at home more than ever. According to research, the average office worker spends 15 hours sitting, and regardless of whether you found the time to exercise, sitting too much may override the exercise you do. Something as simple as getting up periodically through the day can make a difference for your health. Try a standing desk to remind you to move more or walk during your breaks. For more information on sitting and your health, read: Sitting Disease: 5 Important Things You Need to Know
Focus on Self-Care
Being healthy is not just about eating right and working out. Your mental health is just as important, and without mental stability, your physical health may suffer. Make time to address your needs to focus on your health by improving your relationships, learning how to cope with anxiety, or taking time to unplug from technology. If you need more guidance, check out these posts:
- 6 Ways to Achieve Wellness Through Self-care
- The 7 Best Self-Care Strategies This Holiday Season
- 5 Proven Reasons Why Gratitude Improves Your Health
Stock Your Area With Healthy Food
If you struggle with eating healthy in between meals, try stashing healthy snacks around your house, purse, car, etc… Some people just need to snack on things during the day and grab anything lying around. When you arm yourself with delicious healthy snacks like nuts, baby carrots, hummus, and protein bars, you can snack guilt-free. Here are more examples of healthy snacks to choose from: The 25 Best Healthy Snacks For Weight Loss
Stock up on Pre-Made Healthy Meals
To save time, outsource! If you want to eat healthily but lack time to prepare the meals, use a meal delivery service. There are numerous healthy options for any dietary choice that come right to your door every week. Try different services and find one you love for a mindless healthy eating option.
Reduce Your Plate Size
Portions are essential. Sometimes we have the best intentions with eating better, but we do not have the right quantities. Try eating from a smaller plate to allow yourself to have the right amount of food. Science shows that people who eat from a bigger plate often eat 142 calories more than those who choose a smaller one. Throughout the days, weeks, and months that adds up.
Be Smarter at Restaurants
Sometimes life has us eating out more than we would like, but that doesn’t mean you have to choose unhealthy options. It is possible to eat out and eat right. Let’s be honest: restaurant portions are way more than we need most of the time. Here are some tips for tackling restaurant eating:
- Look for key words like grilled and steamed. Avoid smothered, fried, or breaded
- Read the menu before you go, and pre select your meal
- Order from the lighter fare menu
- Try a few apps instead of a main
- Order a salad first and up the veggies for sides
- Ask for sauce on the side
- Cut your entrée in half it the rest later
These small changes can cut the calories in half!
