4 other useful ways that you can cultivate good health
Here’s a fact that we won’t deny: a well-balanced diet is the foundation of a healthy body, mind, and lifestyle. Eating well helps your body to get the vitamins and minerals that it replenishes daily. It’s also the best way to regulate your weight and build up immunity against common diseases. There are certain foods, even, that can improve your mood! If your mood is more positive, your affect on the people around you is more pleasant. Everyone is happier and world peace.
But, and there is a huge but, is a well-balanced diet the only way that you can be healthy or happy? The answer is no. Yes, a well-balanced diet is important. But, if you neglect other areas of your life you’re still as susceptible to common diseases as someone who eats fast food every day. Life is tricky that way! As you get to know us, you’ll realize that we care as much about what you feed your mind and spirit, too! Because that’s where some of the most real issues stem from. So, before your meal prep, take a few minutes to learn how you can begin to lead a healthier lifestyle.
1. Not getting enough sleep is the cousin of death
First of all, sleep needs an entire post or several about its many benefits! That’s how important it is. We live in a culture where people glorify sleepless nights and all-nighters. They say things like: I’ll sleep when I’m dead and #teamnosleep. While these sayings can be catchy for the Internet, they’re quite damaging for your body and mind. The amount of sleep you need each night depends on your age. Children between infancy and 13 years old need more sleep than working adults. Depending on the kind of work you do, you need anywhere from 7-9 hours each night. Two critical benefits of adequate sleep are improved digestion and immunity.
2. Mind your company (and business too)
Bahamian elders love to warn you about keeping poor company. It's true that bad company corrupts good character and in extreme cases, can cost you your life! Remember how we said that eating certain foods can improve your mood? Well, imagine spending time with people who are always in a bad mood. Perhaps their diet is poor… or they have a lot of soul issues that aren’t related to diet at all. Either way, you’re no therapist and should be wary of placing Captain Save a *redacted*. Steer clear of anyone who brings you down, period. And while you’re at it, mind your business. Your stress levels, which can contribute to increased weight gain, by the way, will thank you.
3. Spend more time on the outside
COVID-19 drama aside, the outside is a pretty cool place to be. You get to take in scents and scenes while the sun blesses you with vitamin D. This vitamin regulates your calcium levels and helps you to maintain healthy bones. Now, too much of anything can be bad… real bad, Michael Jackson. The sun is no exception! Overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can lead to heat exhaustion, damaged skin cells, and skin cancer. Exercise measures to protect your body from the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure. And stay tuned for an article on why you should wear sunscreen always!
4. Watch what your mind eats
There’s a saying, “you are what you eat”. That doesn’t apply to food alone. It applies to everything that you consume. Any type of media can impact your mind in ways that you cannot control. If you spend a lot of time on gossip blogs, for example, you might become a gossip in real life. Healthiness requires mindfulness. That means that you must decide, every day, to do the things that improve the way you think and process information. By doing this, you cultivate the discipline you need to maintain a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
So there you have it! Four other ways that you can lead a healthy lifestyle. While there are many other things that you can do, those are some of the most practical and impactful tips! What about you? Are there any healthy habits that you’d like to share? Leave a comment below - we’d love to hear from you!