Now that the hubbub of New Year’s resolutions has died down, this is an excellent time to evaluate your health and wellness goals. Here are seven tips to keep you healthy throughout this year and beyond.
Exercise
It doesn’t have to include a trip to the gym – move your body and be active. Gardening, housekeeping, and taking the stairs rather than the elevator are all examples of exercise. Parking your car further away from the shop entrance, walking your dog, or taking your children to the park all add to your daily steps.
According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, you should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week.
You might want to invest in a fitness tracker to remind you to get up and move and measure your activities and steps.
While the fitness goal of 10,000 steps a day is widely promoted, a new study suggests that logging even 7,000 daily steps may go a long way toward better health.
On average, middle-aged people who walked at least 7,000 steps a day were 50-70% less likely to die of any cause over the next decade than those who took fewer steps.
Eat Healthier
Focus on vegetables, fruit, lean protein, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and water as your primary food sources. Be sure to keep portion sizes in check as well.
Once a Week, do a Digital Detox
Put phones in a basket during meals and family times. Emails and Instagram stories can wait. Have a board game or movie night (even if you have it at home) where phones are not allowed.
Get Enough Sleep
Experts recommend that adults sleep between 7 and 9 hours a night.
Adults who sleep less than 7 hours a night may have more health issues than those who sleep seven or more hours a night. Sleeping more than 9 hours a night is not necessarily harmful and may be helpful for young adults, people who are recovering from sleep deprivation, and people who are sick.
Sleep is essential and directly related to how our body functions – energy levels, performance, and the immune system.
Meditate
Help your body and mind unwind – meditating can aid mental wellness. The benefits of meditation start at 10 minutes a day.
Many free guided meditations are available via podcasts or even within fitness apps.
Carve out time with family and friends
Figure out when you can get together – even if it’s only once a month. On alternative times, be sure to call loved ones or use video conferencing tools such as FaceTime, Zoom, or Facebook’s video chat to stay in touch.
Get Enough Water
Water is needed for the body’s critical processes – temperature management, breathing, and nutrient transfer. Many people do not drink the recommended amount of water daily and suffer from severe ailments like dehydration and headaches. The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies recommends drinking 11 cups for adult women a day and 15 cups for men.
Remember, if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
“We want this to be your best year ever, so I encourage you to takes steps each day to make this a great 2023.” — Jeff Novak, President of Advanced Insurance Designs Inc.
To Your Healthiest Year Ever
Taking steps to achieve health and wellness may seem more complex than it is. Taking small steps toward a healthier lifestyle will extend your life and make your golden years more enjoyable. It may even reduce your insurance premiums.
Let us know how we can help you with your insurance needs by giving us a call at 330-753-8700 today!
