In today’s fast-paced world, embarking on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle can often feel overwhelming. We always hear about “lifestyle changes,” but do we really know what it takes to achieve them? With an abundance of information (some of which can sometimes even be contradictory), many people find themselves unsure of where to start.
A healthy lifestyle usually begins with a balanced diet. Start incorporating a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Ingredient awareness is a must! Have you looked at any of the ingredients in the foods you have been buying lately? Oh, and don’t get me started on processed foods, which are laden with preservatives, sugar, sodium, seed oils, and high fructose corn syrup! Look at the ingredients of the foods you are purchasing! Consider using this rule of thumb: if you can’t pronounce the ingredients, don’t eat it! What we eat matters and affects our health! Learning to eat clean, whole foods can be life-changing!
Okay, so before making any changes, it is crucial to establish clear and realistic goals. Ask yourself what you want to achieve and why. If you want to lose weight, improve cardiovascular health, or feel more energetic, having a specific goal provides direction.
Being dedicated to your lifestyle changes can improve your health in big ways! You can even lower your cholesterol naturally! Lifestyle changes initially require some sacrifices, and yes, some willpower. It is difficult to say no when your family and friends are indulging in hot dogs and hamburgers with all the fixings at their barbeque, but you must be strong. You can do it! I remember when I initially made my lifestyle changes, I dreaded attending parties, and then I discovered I could eat whatever I wanted if I brought enough to share! Try it!
Knowledge is power when it comes to making informed health decisions. Do your research! Learn about nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. I took a weight management class once, and I loved it! I also met a lot of like-minded people who became friends. Understading empowers you to make better choices.
Physical activity is, obviously, a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Activities such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming improve heart health and burn calories. Two and a half hours every week is all it takes! To be clear, you do not have to run a marathon or work out daily to reap the benefits of exercise. Resistance training at least twice a week helps build muscle, boost metabolism, and enhance overall strength. Consider trying something new, such as yoga or Pilates, which can improve flexibility, balance, and mental well-being.
Sleep is often overlooked, but is essential for overall health. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a calming bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and limit screen time before bed (or do what I did: get blue lightblocking glasses) to improve sleep quality. Adequate sleep can enhance mood, cognitive function, and energy levels, making it easier to stick to healthy habits.
Stress affects mental and physical well-being. High stress levels can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating or neglecting exercise. That’s me! When I am stressed out, I just want to eat sweet and salty things, LOL. Mindfulness, meditation, or breathing techniques (my favorite) can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve emotional health.
Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can significantly impact your success. Share your goals with friends or family and seek their encouragement. Why not get an accountability partner? My sister, Denise, is my go-to person for support, and we have fun sharing our successes and inevitable setbacks. Social support fosters accountability and can make your journey much more enjoyable.
Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small! Whether you choose a healthy meal, complete a workout, or feel more energetic, celebrating small victories reinforces positive behavior and keeps motivation high. Reward yourself in some small way!
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and recognize that setbacks are part of the process. Rather than view them as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Persistence is key; stay committed to your goals, and the changes will become part of your routine over time.
Embracing healthy lifestyle changes is a rewarding journey that enhances physical and mental wellbeing. By setting realistic goals, educating yourself, maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, prioritizing sleep, managing stress, seeking support, celebrating progress, and remaining patient, you can create lasting habits that will improve your quality of life. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Start small, stay committed, and watch as these lifestyle changes transform your life for the better.