Let us reassure you…a healthy lifestyle doesn’t require being ‘beach body ready’, or putting yourself on unachievable and unhealthy weight loss plans. Good overall health comes when you create sustainable, manageable goals that look at your overall lifestyle – from a holistic perspective.
And the changes you make don’t have to be huge – just as the saying goes: ‘small steps make a big difference’.
Here at PHP, we’re on hand with these top tips for a healthy lifestyle.
Benefits of a healthy lifestyle
Let's look at the cornerstones of how to live a healthy life:
- Physical health
Whether you have muscular aches and pains, or chronic illnesses such as heart disease, they can affect how you function. Simple, adaptable exercises are easy to fit into your routine (under supervision from a healthcare practitioner). - Energy levels
The 4pm slump is real – but it’s easy to manage – without consuming lots of caffeine to see you through. Mindfulness practices such as simple meditation routines help you feel more alert and energised…as can switching your coffee for a glass of water with a slice of fruit in. - Immune system
Long-term health conditions can result in a compromised immune system, leaving you prone to infections and viruses. Chat with your healthcare practitioner about the safe use of good quality supplements to boost immunity and give you added pep.
- Quality of sleep
Many people are concerned about sleep (or lack thereof), so creating good ‘sleep hygiene’ is key. A set bedtime and get-up time every day is a super step to take. And keeping technology like smartphones out of the bedroom is essential. - Mental wellbeing
Just as important as our physical health. High-stress levels and feelings of anxiety and depression can impact our motivation to look after ourselves. Just taking a few deep breaths and practising relaxation techniques every day can do a lot to boost your mood. - Productivity and focus
Sometimes we might not feel as sharp as we’d like. Whether you’ve got a hectic family schedule or you’re a busy senior with an active social life, pressure to fit it all in and remain focused can be overwhelming. Simple steps to organise your time efficiently can definitely help. - Confidence and self-esteem
When our physical and mental health are tip-top, our confidence rockets…we feel that we can take on the world. But there are times when it’s tricky to love yourself and your body. Having some mental armour in your wellness warrior’s kitbag is a fantastic way to overcome these feelings.
Build healthy eating habits
A balanced diet fuels us with the energy we need to sustain our daily lives. When we consume the right things, we feel satisfied and properly hydrated.
Portion control is something that some people find hard to navigate. The NHS has created an eatwell guide, which not only tells you the sorts of foods to include in your diet – but guess what? You can still enjoy treats while eating sensibly. A little of what you fancy does you good, after all.
Get enough sleep
‘To sleep, perchance to dream’.
Sadly, many of us lie awake worrying that we’re not getting enough.
There are steps you can take to get into a regular sleep pattern and encourage better habits.
A calming bedtime routine is just what you need:
- Always try to get up and go to bed at the same time every day
- Take a warm bath or shower about an hour before bed
- Turn off all phone and TV screens around the same time
- Mindful meditation exercises assist with lulling you into a peaceful slumber
Tips for a healthy lifestyle that stick
Keeping up momentum when you’re making positive changes is easy once you see the benefits (and the impact on how you feel). There will be peaks and troughs as you walk along the path to wellness, but stay focused and you’ll see that destination ‘great health’ isn’t far away.
Take the medication you need
Here at PHP, we understand the importance of how to live a healthy lifestyle to help manage your wellness. Our services mean that patients have convenient and speedy access to essential medications they need to feel better.
We’re committed to helping you achieve your healthy lifestyle habits.
