An Insight To The Beautiful Future

A habit is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as a “usual way of behaving: something that a person does often in a regular and repeated way.” The key word in this definition is “repeated”.

Indeed, whatever activities you do to maintain your health, it is only through repetition that you will achieve your goals. Running a half-marathon once a year will at best provide you with a boost of endorphins or at worst, an injury. On the other hand, 30 minutes of walking or jogging several times a week, year-round, will do miracles for your quality of life and health.

Here are 7 healthy daily habits that can help you improve your physical and mental well-being. Ideally, pick one and then wait until it is fully integrated into your daily routine before selecting another!

1. WALKING
Whenever you can! If you have to go to the grocery store or to the office, whether to get some fresh air during your lunch break or to sightsee while visiting a new city. Walk!

The minimum number of steps you should be taking every day is 10,000. It might seem like a lot and might seem an unachievable task, but every minute counts and gets you closer to your goal. Think of it as a game!

2. STAND UP ON A REGULAR BASIS

In North America, prolonged inactivity is a problem that’s as prevalent as a general lack of exercise. Staying seated during hours at a time compromises the body’s ability to consume fats and sugars, which can lead to several health problems.

Thankfully, there is a simple solution: Stand up as often as possible. Head to your colleague’s office, stand up when you’re on the phone, or use the stairs. Every reason is a good one to get active every day!

3. PLAY OUTSIDE

Getting some fresh air every day is one of the easiest and most pleasant ways of improving your health. Recent studies have even shown the significant health benefits of natural daylight. Furthermore, spending time outside is a good way to manage your stress. Get up early and enjoy the feeling of air on your face and a sunrise is an added advantage.

4. STRAIGHTEN YOUR POSTURE

You should set regular reminders (alarms or notes) to straighten your posture! Bring your neck and hips into a neutral position, then pull your shoulder blades back and stick your chest out.

A good posture helps every muscle work in an optimal way and reduces pressure on your joints. In the long run, you’ll reduce your risk of getting back aches and in the short run, you’ll feel more confident, energized, and you’ll be able to breathe better.

5. USE YOUR MUSCLES

Whether to counter muscle loss associated with aging, to prevent osteoporosis or back aches, or to simply make any activity easier, it’s in your best interest to use your muscles as often as possible.

Take the stairs, go on a hike, do some push ups, sign up for a yoga class. These are only a few ways of exercising your muscles every day.

6. STRETCH

You don’t have to stretch for an hour, you can simply improve your flexibility by moving your body in different ways a few minutes every day. By adding a few stretches to your daily routine, you’ll increase your joint flexibility, which will reduce your risk of injury. Moreover, you’ll get an instant boost of energy due to the influx of oxygenated blood sent to your muscles and brain.

7. MOVE WITH YOUR FRIENDS

This is a two-in-one: it’s fun and motivating! In fact, motivating others is one of the easiest ways to keep yourself motivated. And by exercising with your friends, you’ll associate being active with fun and you’ll want to do it regularly!