When it comes to health, it’s essential to realize that it extends far beyond the physical. It’s not just about the number on the scale or the size of your jeans. While following fad diets might help you shed some pounds, they often fall short of promoting true well-being. In fact, cutting off entire food groups can lead to dehydration, constipation, and vitamin deficiencies. The initial weight loss might seem promising, but these diets are rarely sustainable in the long run.
A more effective approach to health is to adopt a holistic mindset. This approach offers not only physical benefits but also psychological ones. When you prioritize holistic health, you’re aiming to strengthen the connection between your mind and body. Your emotions directly impact your biological functioning. By reducing stress and nurturing your mental well-being, you’ll unlock your inner strength to support your journey to better health.
It’s important to recognize that extreme or drastic lifestyle changes tend to be short-lived. Instead, consider taking small, sustainable steps toward a healthier mindset. Here, we present five tips to help you embark on a journey toward a happier and healthier version of yourself.
1. Nutrition Without Restriction
A holistic approach to eating means embracing natural foods. Avoid processed or fast foods, which often have chemicals and preservatives. Instead, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Rather than eating steak and potatoes every night, prioritize lean proteins and whole grains. That might mean chicken, quinoa, and roasted veggies instead.
A great way to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients is to “eat the rainbow.” Different colored fruits and vegetables provide various vitamins and minerals, which build the body’s immunity and strength. While you should aim to eat healthy food, you may not get all the required nutrients from food alone.
You may need to consider taking supplements to complement your efforts. One popular option many are trying are apple cider vinegar supplements. According to Numo.com, ACV gummies promote gut health and assist blood sugar control. The added fiber can also help you feel fuller for longer, meaning less unhealthy snacking.
2. Physical Activity as a Lifestyle
Pushing yourself to follow a rigorous exercise routine may lead to muscle strain faster than weight loss. If you’re a beginner, start slow and build your fitness routine as your stamina increases. Check out what kind of exercises Nike recommends for beginners. The key is to keep moving. You don’t have to restrict yourself to the gym. Find a form of exercise you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, yoga, hiking, or sports.
The benefits of regular exercise go beyond weight loss. It keeps your body in shape, boosts confidence, and reduces stress. Incorporate movement into your daily routine whenever possible. Take the stairs and park at the back of the parking lot so you walk more. Instead of scrolling through your cell phone sitting down, do it walking around the room. Not only does exercise make your day better, it can also help you sleep better.
3. Quality Sleep and Recovery
Good sleep can improve how your brain performs. While you sleep, your brain forms pathways that let you learn and create new memories. People who don’t get enough sleep may find it harder to concentrate and feel grumpier all day. Healthy adults need at least seven hours of good quality sleep each night, while children may need more. You can take a quiz to assess your sleep quality.
To improve sleep quality, create a bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Soothe your senses by turning off bright lights, including all screens, and putting on some calming music. Make sure your bed linens are clean. Adding a drop of essential oils or pillow mist can also help you wind down through aromatherapy. Add black out curtains too to reduce light disturbances.
4. Social Support and Connection
The people you surround yourself with can impact your health profoundly. Healthy relationships provide emotional nourishment, which is vital for holistic health. You need people who understand your struggles and encourage you to do better. If you’re not feeling valued within your family and friends circle, find new people to hang out with.
Join clubs and workshops on topics that interest you and network with the people you meet there. Some can thrive on online connections, but the value of actually meeting someone in person is worth the effort. The body language, the encouraging smile, or a high five cannot be replaced by emojis.
Once you find people with similar goals, your health journey can get easier. You will help each other up on slow days and keep each other accountable if anyone starts slacking. The golden rule is to be yourself. Be open, clear, and firm about your boundaries. Keep reminding yourself that you don’t have to change yourself for others. You need people who love you for who you are and are proud of you when you achieve your goals.
5. Celebration of Non-Scale Victories
Your goal should not only be a number on the scale. Every improvement in your mood, stamina, or even spirituality is an achievement on its own. Take pride in the fact that you can climb two flights of stairs without breaking a sweat. Feel good that you don’t binge on snacks while watching your favorite show. Be aware that not everyone can meditate for ten minutes daily. Every step away from an unhealthy life is a victory.
Above all, be kind to yourself. Do not compare yourself with your friends, family, or social media influencers. Appreciate the efforts even if you don’t achieve the exact outcome you wanted. Treat yourself to clothes that make you feel more confident and comfortable. Keep complimenting yourself the way you would compliment others, to remind yourself of your worth.
Power of Consistency
Holistic wellness isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. You must stay consistent and keep going even if you stumble occasionally. Take small steps and set goals that are realistic and achievable. Once you have created healthy habits, stick to them and keep motivating yourself to go further. Remember, that this is not only a journey toward health, but also toward happiness.
