7 Healthy Habits To Adopt Today

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Bad habits are difficult to break, but it’s not impossible to revamp your routine and make healthier choices. In fact, it can be a lot easier than you think. The best way to build better habits is by making small choices that add up to big results, and to start exactly where you are. Healthy habits can go a long way in improving your quality of life.

When you’ve decided you want to make a few changes for the better, it can be overwhelming to know exactly where to start. Read on for several ideas that will give your health and personal wellness a major, and well-deserved, boost.

SEE ALSO: How To Be Mindful In Key Areas Of Life

1. Daily exercise

You don’t have to be a regular at the gym to incorporate daily exercise into your routine. Try to adopt a more fitness-focused mindset and make exercise fit organically into your day. Take the stairs at work, pull out your trusty softball bats for a game with friends and family at the park or head out for a walk on your lunch break instead of sitting at your desk.

2. Adequate water intake

Most adults don’t get as much water as they need to and often reach for unhealthier options such as soda, juice or sugary coffee and tea. When many people try to drink more water, they aim high. If you typically only drink a couple of glasses of water per day, trying to start tomorrow with an entire gallon of water could be too much too soon. Aim to drink just one more glass of water per day for a week, and then build up gradually.

3. More fruits and vegetables

When many people think about a healthy diet, feelings of restriction and tedium come to mind. It isn’t necessarily about cutting out all of your favorite, less healthy foods, though that will always spell health benefits down the road. Rather, it’s about eating healthier ones. You don’t have to say goodbye to your weekly pizza night. Just try to fill up your plate with a serving of fruits and vegetables to fill your stomach before you indulge. That way, you can still enjoy your favorite foods, but are just likely to eat less of them.

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4. A Bedtime routine

Good sleep is crucial for a long, healthy life. If you find yourself tossing and turning, or having trouble falling asleep, you could benefit from better sleep hygiene. If you know you need to be at work by a certain time in the morning, go to bed at a time that allows you to get at least seven hours of solid rest. Just before it’s time for bed, practice a few soothing activities and try to avoid blue light exposure from screens so your brain knows it’s time to slow down and rest.

5. Good posture

Standing up straight is a lot less stressful for your bones, muscles and ligaments, but it can be hard when you’re seated in a chair for long durations during the day. Good posture is a habit that requires constant mindfulness to maintain and develop. Whenever you notice yourself slouching, pull your shoulders back, level your head and neck and lengthen your spine. It may be helpful to leave a note by your desk to remind you to perk up and sit straight.

6. Regular socialization

Human beings are social creatures that need connections with other people to maintain a good sense of mental and physical health. Don’t leave yourself out of social engagements. Make regular plans with those you care about most in the world, even if it’s just a phone call or a quick chat.

7. Meditation

A mindfulness practice such as meditation has numerous health benefits, both for your mental and physical wellness. This practice simply involves the act of sitting with your feelings, taking a mental inventory of your life and trying to be fully aware in the present moment. Meditation may seem daunting, but there are dozens of podcasts, apps and videos online that are there to guide you into your own practice. Regular meditation has been shown to lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety and boost your immune system, all of which can lead you to a longer, healthier life.

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