Summer – the time of year when most of us begin a serious diet, get into a major new fitness routine and even make a few changes to our well being that begin to show some definite results, but come autumn are you still sticking to this healthy, new you? The main mistake that most of us make, when it comes to our health and well-being, is going too extreme in terms of diet and lifestyle changes. It is important to look after yourself, but make sure that you allow yourself some slack and don’t be too hard on yourself if you do fall off your plan once in a while.
When it comes to summer health hacks, you first of all need to establish which parts of your health and wellness routine will need some attention. Make sure that you remain realistic; as the chances are that you will not be able to rehaul your entire diet and lifestyle in a few months. If you are looking to rethink your diet or lose some weight, then sign up to a gym or begin by keeping a food diary so you can track your calories and what you eat. If you are worried about your mental health, then why not try having a break from social media or even downloading several apps that focus on mindfulness or breathing, so you can begin to look after yourself. By making small changes, you are much more likely to stick to your hacks and follow through well into the autumn and beyond.
Move more
The chances are that even if you are not a gym bunny or hate working out, you will find it a lot easier to move more and get out and be active during the warmer weather. It is one health hack that you should try to stick to, even if you do not need to lose any weight. Exercise benefits your entire body, sending blood racing through your veins and helping you to produce endorphins; natural hormones that boost your mood and make you feel really good. Try shaking up your usual routine and attending a different class, or trying out a new gym routine with a friend or colleague. You could even hold walking meetings and take your workout outdoors, or go for a jog during your lunch hour. If you feel that your family is not very healthy, then why not try encouraging them to move more also. From packing a picnic and enjoying a day hiking and exploring your local, national park or sight of historical interest, to all taking a walk around the block each evening, you will all soon benefit from moving more.
Diet
If you have not been paying attention to your diet and eating habits, then summer is the perfect time to start thinking through your food choices and begin to make some lasting improvements to your diet. Begin by going through your cupboards and getting rid of any sugar and calorie-laden foods so that both you and your family are not tempted to fill up with snacks. Now you can begin to start eating foods that improve your energy levels, such as upping your protein intake in the form of organic and grass-fed meats, fish and even handfuls of nuts. If your kids are self-confessed picky eaters, then why not get them involved and welcome them into the kitchen to explore the benefits of healthy eating. Try replacing your usual white bread and pasta with quinoa or brown rice, as this will also provide you with a daily amount of fiber that helps to keep your energy levels up while being better for your digestive tract. Make the most of the summer season and load up your plate with lots of seasonal fruit and vegetables. Finally, remember that it is ok to have a few treats or summer cocktails once in a while, but moderation is key. While we all enjoy a treat day, it is important that you get back on your new regime as soon as possible.
Sleep more
While it may be easier to get out of bed in the summer, increasing your sleep and rest time will benefit your mind and body all year round, and there are a few hacks that you can use to help you along the way. Be sure to keep your bedroom solely for sleep and leave any technology, such as your cell phone or tablet outside and away from the bedroom. Try going to bed at the same time each night, and spray some essential oils onto your pillow to help you to drop off.
Mental health
If your mental health is causing you to feel anxious or depressed, then you may want to rethink your mindset and explore new ways to help you feel better about yourself and more positive. Try using mindfulness techniques in which you focus on your breathing and take time out to meditate. Remember that you cannot change what has happened or govern what has yet to come, so try and live more in the now and you will notice the benefits to your overall health while seeing your anxiety levels drop also.
Most of us make good intentions and change our diet and lifestyle in the summer, but as soon as the colder months come around, we no longer keep track of our health. This summer, rethink your diet and do allow yourself a few treats. Try getting up and being more active, and your kids and colleagues may want to get involved too. Ensure you are sleeping more so that you can recharge your energy levels and rest up for the next day. Finally, take time to check in with your mental health and explore different ways to help you to feel more relaxed and less anxious. By using these simple health hacks, you will soon embrace your new well-being and health regime and wonder why you did not try out these methods earlier.
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