10 Simple Ways to Maintain Good Health

With all the emphasis put on our health it may seem like a never ending challenge to stay healthy so here are ten simple things to incorporate in your hectic lives:

1. Eat right

   Eat fruits, veggies, dairy, grains, cereals, proteins and lean cuts of meat. Limit the intake of salty and highly fattening foods. An effective plan is that of the Mediterranean eating habits, where you can acquire on a daily basis the nutrients you need, Omega 3 fatty acids (you know, the good kind), and consume generally delicious food in reasonable portion.

2. Exercise

   Who has the time, you say? Only 30 minutes, 3 times per week, of moderate intensity cardiovascular workout is all that it takes. You will see not only an improvement in the way you look, but also the way you feel. Physical activity is a great way to release stress.

3. Floss

   Brushing doesn’t remove every piece of plaque. Lucky us, we have dental floss, which removes food particles in between teeth and at the gum line. Those who don’t floss regularly have much higher chances of developing an oral disease, such as gingivitis. So, grab that string and start flossing!

4. Reduce Stress

   Read more in Health

   « Are Your Feces Healthy 2?

   Influenza Type? »

   Take 15 minutes out of your busy day to unwind briefly and take a few deep breaths, inhaling slowly, and then exhaling as you clear your mind. While at work, sit upright, with a straight-back, in your chair. Place both of your arms out to the side and gradually move them upward, meeting directly above your head. Bring them down together in front of you. This should make you feel lighter, calmer, and generally less-stressed for a period in the day.

5. Smile and laugh

   When you feel that tension building in your neck or you find yourself grinding your teeth, stop and just smile. You’ll instantly feel relieved from your worries. Rent a funny movie or laugh about a ridiculous joke your friend told you. The important thing, just take some time out to laugh and flash that beautiful smile, even if it’s only for yourself.

6. Drink more water

   Water keeps you hydrated and helps to flush out toxins from your body. Instead of grabbing a soda, pick up a glass, throw in a couple of ice cubes, pour in the water and squeeze in the juice of fresh lemon or throw in a couple sprigs of clean, fresh mint to give it some flavor. (Check the nutrition labels of the trendy flavored-water drinks before buying, many are loaded with sugar and will help to negate the effect of drinking H2O)

7. Get some sunshine

   We all need vitamin D, which is a nutrient that can be obtained by catching some rays. The sun also assists in releasing endorphins, a secretion from the pituitary gland that is correlated with a generally good, energetic feeling.

8. Sleep right

   A full eight hours of peaceful sleep is the best idea for your health. If that seems a little much, try taking it easy for about an hour or so before you plan on going to bed. All in all, it is best to try to rest and relax for 1/4-1/3 of the 24 hour day.

9. Wash your hands

   Wash your hands continuously during the day to kill 90% of germs with hot water and antibacterial soap. If this is even too much to do, just grab some antibacterial hand gel and rub it into your hands, front and back. Diseases are most easily and frequently transferred via the hands.

10. Maintain healthy relationships

    Healthy, supportive relationships with family and close friends will reduce anxiety and will provide a more positive outlook on life. It’s important to listen as much, if not more than, you talk; think about what you want to say before it comes out of your mouth; understand that everyone is human and makes mistakes.

Photo by abdullah al-naser