The global pandemic made countless people rethink the way they live. Individuals with co-morbidities were more at risk of complications from the coronavirus, and too many people lost their lives. When a person is healthy, they can fight off illnesses better and have better outcomes if they become ill. However, the path to a healthier lifestyle isn’t always easy.
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The Four Stages of Breaking a Habit
Before a person can break a habit, they must want to. Only then can they move to the next step, which is preparing to break the habit by coming up with a plan. Once this plan is in place, they can take action and quit the behavior. The process doesn’t end here, however. It’s easy to fall back into old habits, but you can reduce the risk of this happening.
Spend six months working on maintaining the desired behavior before it becomes routine. Expect a few setbacks, but don’t let them derail you. It happens, and your reaction to a setback is what matters. What are some habits that lead to better health?
Walk More
Walking more is an easy way to improve your overall health. Every person should aim for 30 minutes of walking each day. People often find it hard to get this amount in, but doing so increases the heart rate while burning calories. Get up and walk for five minutes each hour, take the steps instead of the elevator, and park farther from the door to get extra steps in. Small changes such as these can have a major impact. Ask your doctor how a personalized private healthcare plan that includes walking will lead to better health. The doctor will provide this information and may be able to make other suggestions that will help you achieve this goal.
Make Time for Breakfast
Countless people skip breakfast every day. They rush around getting ready for the day and food is the last thing on their minds. Eating in the morning helps jumpstart your metabolism. Research shows it can also help lower your body mass index. When preparing this morning meal, include foods high in protein. They give you energy to get through the day and will reduce cravings for sugary foods.
Establish a Sleep Schedule
Many people vary their bedtime and never stop to think about how doing so harms their health. Ample sleep lowers your risk of gaining weight or developing other health issues. People who get plenty of sleep have stronger immune systems and fewer memory issues. Establishing a set bedtime and wake-up time helps ensure you get the sleep you need routinely.
Drink More Water
Water makes up 60 percent of the adult human body. Drink 64 ounces of water daily to replenish fluids lost when you exercise or engage in other activities. Water is needed to maintain your blood pressure, remove toxins from the digestive system, and more. Make sure you are taking enough in to help your body perform these vital functions. When your body has enough water, you’ll find it easier to do everyday tasks, including exercise. This exercise also benefits your health.
Changing your habits can lead to better health. Start small and build on each accomplishment. Once you see how these changes benefit your life, the motivation will be there to keep moving forward. Pick one habit and implement it today. You won’t regret doing so when you see the results.