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The new year is here and, with it, an unmissable opportunity to transform your physical health and get on top of your mental wellbeing. While it may feel overwhelming to change all at once, keep in mind that your mind and body are connected. So, as you improve one aspect of your health, you can kick-start a positive cycle that will lead to lasting and significant improvements in your overall wellbeing. But it all depends on making the right first step! Below, we’ll look at a few strategies that are the perfect stepping stones to boost your overall health!
Work With A Mental Health Professional
Below we’ll look at a few options that can help you improve your overall health and wellbeing. However, if you have been struggling with ongoing feelings of sadness, anxiety, and overwhelm, it is important to seek the help of a mental health professional. An expert can empower you with tailored mental health treatment plans that take advantage of the latest approaches to support your recovery and overall health.
Make Movement Part Of Your Daily Routine
Movement plays a key role in supporting overall health. It boosts conditioning and strength, improves independence and confidence in daily movements, and reduces the risk of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Exercise also positively influences mental health, as it contributes to increased energy levels and triggers the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-killers and mood-boosters.
If you are struggling to make movement part of your daily routine, consider implementing some key changes, such as commuting by bike, walking to the grocery store, taking the stairs, and finding active hobbies, such as gardening or hiking, that you truly enjoy. You may also invest in ergonomic additions to your workspace, such as a walking pad, to reduce the number of hours that you spend in sedentary positions. These may seem minor adjustments but can offer significant results over time!
Spend More Time Outdoors
Spending time outdoors is essential for mental health. It helps reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, allowing you to feel calmer, more relaxed, and connected with your surroundings. To spend more time in nature, you don’t have to sign up for extreme expeditions! Just taking a stroll through a local park or along the beach can offer some benefits!
Improve Your Diet And Daily Habits
Eating a healthy diet packed with fibres and antioxidants can play a role in supporting your mental health. While ideal dietary choices vary from one person to another, general guidelines include prioritizing whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean plant-based proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, excessive sugar, and caffeine. Also, be sure to stay hydrated and consider reducing intake of tobacco and alcohol to support overall health.
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Last but not least, to feel better physically and mentally, you need to boost your energy levels. And, to do so, alongside eating better and exercising, you may also consider prioritizing rest and sleep. Far from being luxuries, these are essential body functions necessary for energy production, mood regulation, memory and cognitive processes. So, adjust your pace, take breaks, and aim to sleep 7-9 hours every night!
