As a homeschooling mom, I get how hard it can be to keep fitness and healthy eating as a priority. My latest example: in order to get out the door for a run, I’ve started bringing my youngest with me, even though I prefer my runs as alone time for clearing my mind. (He enjoys it!) We cannot let kids or busyness stop us from taking care of ourselves. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
I’m sharing ten habits you can easily incorporate into your life. These relatively small things can make a BIG difference in your overall health. Start with one at a time if you need to. Even if you’re already active and fit, you can still probably improve upon some of these; I know I can!
1) hydrate
Most people don’t drink enough water, but it’s absolutely essential for your body. It helps your process food, flush out toxins, and even helps your skin look better! Make a point of keeping a beverage nearby; water is best but other drinks do count, too. Kids tend to dehydrate even more quickly than adults so pay extra close attention to their water intake.
2) move more
As a whole, we are a sedentary people. Even those of us who exercise often tend to only be active during our workouts. Make a point to do things throughout your day like take the stairs instead of the elevator, and if you sit at home or work, be sure to get up and walk around a bit at least every twenty minutes. Try setting a reminder on your phone so time doesn’t get away from you.
3) reduce sugar
The average American eats 150+ pounds of sugar every year. Of course we know sodas and cupcakes have sugar, but it adds up in other foods as well, especially in pre-packaged foods. This infographic is pretty crazy.
4) sleep more
If we don’t get enough sleep, the bodies don’t have time to for muscle repair, memory consolidation, and hormone regulation for growth (kids/teens) and appetite. Most of us push sleep to the bottom of our priority list but it needs to be near the top! Different people needs different amounts of sleep but once you figure our your ideal, strive for that every night. {My ideal: 8-9 hours.}
5) protein + carbs
I used to think carbs were just breads, but even fruits and veggies are carbs. If you look at nutrients for a food, if carbohydrates are highest (over fat and protein) then it’s a carb. Try to pairing your carbs with a protein, even for snacks; this can help control your blood sugar levels throughout the day. A few examples: a boiled egg with snap peas and hummus, or cottage cheese with fruit.
6) s-t-r-e-t-c-h
Use it or lose it. In this case, I mean mobility. Every day, even if you don’t work out, you can add some basic stretching into your routine. If you want to expand on what you’re already doing, add in some gentle yoga. I like Do Yoga With Me and Yoga With Adriene for at-home options, and both sites are free.
7) stop skipping meals
Even if you’re trying to lose weight, you are not doing your body any favors if you skip meals. It can make your blood sugar levels crazy, and if you do it too much, your body wants to hold onto fat to survive because it’s not sure when the next meal is coming!
8) say no to “hangry”
When you’re out and about, and meal time comes around or you get hungry, you’re likely to eat whatever is easy — and that’s often fast food or something equally unhealthy. Plan ahead, take healthy snacks with you, or have something super-easy waiting at home. I like to throw a protein bar in my purse just in case. Lara Bars are one of my favorites, but I’ve been wanting to try these chia bars, too.
9) avoid “tech neck”
That’s a phrase to describe the aches, pains, and poor posture associated with use of all our mobile devices. When you’re on your phone/ipad/etc, make a point of holding it at high level — and set it down and engage with the world around you as often as possible.
10) get outside
Studies have shown that being in the great outdoors improves your mood, boosts your creativity, and can even help prevent nearsightedness. For me, it’s a major sanity saver!
Leave a Reply