The world around us is so fast-paced and chaotic that it’s easy to get lost in the whirl of everyday life. 

Your day in and day out is filled with unhealthy habits and bad choices, and there’s no ebb and flow into a healthier lifestyle. And then you wonder, “Why don’t I feel great?”, “Why is my energy so low?” and “What’s up with my immunity?”

The answer is simple: You must make a conscious and active effort to put your health first. You can’t expect to feel amazing all the time if you don’t prioritize your well-being and incorporate healthy habits into your lifestyle. 

You’ll also be more prone to illnesses, fatigue, brain fog, and other ailments from neglecting your health.

Luckily, you can make small changes in your everyday life that will significantly impact your overall well-being. Here are some easy ways to get started on a path toward improved health and increased vitality. So, without any further ado, let us get straight to the topic.

1. Keep your water intake up

Water helps deliver essential nutrients to your cells and flushes out toxins. 

Make sure to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day, and aim to drink at least a gallon of water a day for optimal health. It’ll help you stay energized and focused. Not to mention that it’s great for your skin.

You can carry a refillable/reusable water bottle to sip throughout the day or buy gallon jugs to ensure you hit your goal. If drinking plain water feels boring, try adding a squeeze of lime or lemon for flavor. 

Some water bottles even come with unique fruit infusers. You can add a few slices of cucumber or strawberries for a light, refreshing flavor. 

No matter how you like to drink it, as long as you are hydrated, it doesn’t matter how you get there. Just remember, drink up.

2. Move your body

Exercise is a must; it’s like giving your body an energy recharge. A good workout helps pump oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. It can help sharpen your focus and concentration.

You don’t need to join a gym class or take up a high-intensity exercise routine. Just find something you enjoy doing, such as walking, swimming, or biking. 

Some aerobic exercises like jogging, running, or dancing can help reduce stress levels. Get creative and explore your options!

Once you get into the habit of exercising regularly, you’ll find it easier to concentrate and stay focused on your tasks. 

Plus, the endorphins released after a workout will help you feel happier and more motivated. Exercise helps improve memory, speed up thinking processes, and even prevent chronic diseases.

3. Cut out processed foods, eat nutrient-rich meals

Processed and junk food have little to no nutritional value. These are full of unhealthy fats and added sugars that can cause inflammation in your body and even lead to chronic diseases. 

Eating processed foods can also build up toxins in your body, which can cause fatigue and other health issues. 

Instead, focus on eating nutrient-rich meals. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your daily diet. These foods are packed with vitamins, fibers, minerals, and antioxidants that can help increase your energy levels, boost your immunity, and even aid in weight loss. 

Opt for natural, healthier alternatives when craving a snack or a sweet treat. Raw nuts, dried fruits, and even dark chocolate can be delicious and nutritious options. 

4. Make sleep a priority 

Your health, well-being, and productivity are at stake when you don’t get enough sleep. 

Sleep deprivation can lead to low energy levels, decreased focus and concentration, and increased stress. You need to get at least seven hours of sleep daily to feel refreshed and energized the next day. 

How to do it:

Put your devices away at least one or two hours before bed. The blue light from screens can hinder your body’s natural sleep cycle and make it more difficult to fall asleep. 

Instead of playing on your phone or scrolling through social media, try reading a book, listening to relaxing music, or meditating before bed.

Set up a calming nighttime routine. Your body and mind need time to wind down to fall asleep quickly. 

Start dimming the lights and take a warm shower or bath. It will help relax your body and prepare it for sleep.

5. Wash your hands frequently

You touch surfaces every day that may carry germs and bacteria. This can put you at risk of sickness, so it is vital to clean your hands and wash them regularly throughout the day. 

According to the CDC, you must scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds to effectively kill germs. 

Additionally, if you can’t access soap and running water, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands. 

Seven key times when washing hands is crucial:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• After using the restroom
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling pet food or pet treats
• After touching garbage 

6. Practice gratitude

Gratitude means thankfulness and appreciation, and it’s a habit that can help you stay positive during times of stress. 

Taking a moment to recognize what you’re grateful for can help shift your focus from the difficult aspects of a situation to the good things still in your life. It can also help remind you of how far you’ve come, even in the face of setbacks or challenges. 

Practicing gratitude can help with physical, mental, and emotional health and also help improve relationships with others. 

Conclusion

It’s too easy to put health on the back burner and forget about it amidst all the other things that seem more pressing. However, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure that your body, mind, and emotions are functioning properly. 

Drinking enough water, eating well-balanced meals, and getting enough sleep are essential parts of a healthy lifestyle. 

Practicing gratitude can also benefit your overall well-being, as it can help you stay focused on the positive qualities in yourself and others.