Little things you can do to ensure you are in top shape.

You don’t have to go vegan, swear off all the things you love and occasionally indulge in, like chocolates and wine, or make drastic lifestyle changes to enjoy a good, healthy life. There are some really basic and simple things that, done over time, can ensure you stay active and in good shape, both physically and mentally. Here are some of our favorites. 

Drink more water
We know you have heard this time and again but it’s so important that we can’t stress on it enough. Being dehydrated can negatively impact everything from your mental focus to energy and metabolism. One trick you can use to stay hydrated is to keep a one-liter water bottle on your work desk and aim to get at least two refills a day. This is a much easier way of tracking water consumption as well than having a glass of water here and there and hoping you are getting enough. From acne to period cramps, there are a lot of little problems that having enough water in your system can cure. 

Dry brush your skin
Dry skin brushing is an incredible daily health-boosting practice to work into either your morning or evening routine. Not only does it smooth, exfoliate and detoxify your skin, but also supports the lymphatic system, increases energy, reduces cellulite and improves blood flow. All you need is a brush with firm bristles and a handle. Start at your feet and work upwards. Brush towards your heart with long, smooth strokes. Take your time and invest about five minutes into this practice. We guarantee you will feel super rejuvenated when you are done. 

Detox your home
We are exposed to many toxins on a daily basis and while we might have no control over many of them, we can control the toxins that come into our own homes. Start small to detoxify your home and work your way up. Some easy first steps are to leave the windows open as much as possible for better ventilation and change your sheets and cushion covers regularly. Replace beauty products with less toxic and chemical-free options. Use glass instead of plastic where possible and filter your water. Another easy and super efficient way to eliminate toxins is to switch from your standard household cleaners to environmental friendly versions. 

Wash and floss 
Two simple but highly underrated hygiene practices are apparently washing hands and flossing teeth. Wash your hands every chance you get and keep them away from your face. This simple habit is single handedly the best way to avoid picking up those nasty viruses going around. And don’t forget to floss your teeth. Keeping your gums clean will not only help you avoid bad breath, but also helps you avoid heart disease. The American Dental Association recommends you floss at least once per day to remove plaque that isn’t eliminated by brushing.

Meditate
Studies have shown that meditation – even if it is just 10 minutes a day – is good for stress reduction, better sleep, lower blood pressure, improved immunity, and improved cardiovascular function. Scientific studies have shown that those who meditate enhance their slow wave sleep pattern, which can help fight insomnia. Also, studies have shown that long term practice of meditation can lead to physical changes in the brain that help alter the perception of pain. Apparently, those who meditate will experience lower pain sensitivity. We say it’s worth a try. Start with 10 minutes a day and work your way up to 20 to 30 minutes. 

Sit up straight 
Having good posture can prevent aches and pain and it can also reduce stress on your ligaments. Try leaving yourself a note to sit up straight, until it becomes an unconscious habit. You could also set regular reminders in the form of alarms 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 thus reduces pressure on your joints. In the long run, you will reduce your risk of getting backaches and in the short run, you will feel more confident, energized while also being able to breathe better.

Reduce stress 
Stress can have an enormous negative impact on health and addressing it is something many people neglect to do. Instead of turning to unhealthy outlets, master super-quick stress reducers like deep breathing and sipping on green tea. Other easy solutions: smelling lavender, doing a few quick stretches, or taking a stroll around your neighborhood. Also, putting away your smartphone might seem like quite a challenge but you will be surprised how being connected 24/7 can have negative side effects on your memory, creativity, and productivity and also lead to stress. Disconnect for at least one hour every day and give your brain a well-deserved break to recharge and rejuvenate. 

Walk 10,000 steps daily
Forget about counting calories, and achieve life-long good health by walking 10,000 steps each day. Why is this an important health habit, you ask? The thing is walking can not only help with weight loss, but it can also help in improving cholesterol, blood pressure, as well as aid in tackling so many other health-related areas. And it’s fairly simple too. All you have to do is make it a health habit to walk at least 10,000 steps a day. Also, in the age of smartphones, tracking your steps is so easy. Just download a pedometer app for your smartphone. Start small and work your way up, but always make sure you hit or exceed that 10,000 steps goal.

 
• habits
 
• health