Healthy habits are learned in the same way as unhealthy ones - - - through practice.
By creating and implementing healthy habits, you can begin to make and sustain major changes for the rest of your life. The good news is it’s NEVER too late to make changes, even little changes like learning to slow down and relax can add quality and years to your life. Here are 6 easy suggestions to get you going:
Simple Morning Stretch:
When you rise in the morning, take a few precious moments to slowly and gently stretch out your body. Think about cats and dogs, when they wake from slumber they move and bend and stretch. This will wake up the muscles and get blood and oxygen flowing throughout your body, better preparing you mentally and physically for the day ahead of you.
Eat a Little Less:
Use a smaller plate, a smaller fork or spoon, even chopsticks. Prepare a simple table setting and sit down to eat. Chew slowly and take little breaks by putting your utensils down for a few seconds. Enjoy your meal and of course make it healthy. A good rule of thumb is fill your plate with 3/4‘s whole grains, fresh colorful vegetables and fruits, and the rest lean protein.
Drink Plenty of Water:
It doesn’t have to be super-expensive fancy bottled water, in fact I urge you to carry a reusable water container with you to stay hydrated, save a few bucks and do the planet a favor. Add some fresh squeezed lemon or doTerra DoTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS Lemon/grapefruit/lime oil. The citrus will help rid petrochemicals in your system, cleanse and detox.
Exercise:
However you do it, you need to get your body moving on a regular basis. Incorporate some type of fitness into your day, whether it’s one longer session at your local gym, a class you can attend, a brisk walk on your lunch break, or a fitness dvd. Take your kids to the playground and play with them, take the dog for a long walk, call a friend and meet up for a power-walk/jog.
If you live an apartment building like me, you can go up and down 2-3 flights of stairs for 20-30 minutes for a great calorie burning cardio workout. Just MOVE...it all counts and it should become one of your top habits!
Do Something for You:
Most of us tend to do, do, do for others in our lives. We work hard, take care of the home, run errands, and do chores. Be selfish a few times a week and take a few minutes to do something you enjoy! Read a book or magazine, get a manicure or 10 minute massage, go to a movie, or call and catch up with a friend or family member. Nurturing and pampering yourself a bit is good for everyone in your life, because if your happy and feeling good, so is the rest of the gang.
Meditate:
This one can be difficult, yet it’s simple to do. Taking 5-10 minutes to sit/lie still, calming your body and mind is very healing and rejuvenating. Allow yourself this gift as often as you can. Find a quiet spot, turn off the gadgets, dim the lights, put on some soothing music, light a candle, use some essential oils DoTERRA ESSENTIAL OILS and let your mind and body relax. Lie or sit comfortably, close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths in and out. You deserve a moment of serenity.
Any of these suggestions above will ease you into healthier habits and when you create healthier habits, you create a healthier life.
