6 Quick Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

I’ll be honest. This summer has been a boatload of crazybizzy at my house (the what-were-we-thinking-why-did-we-get-ourselves-into-this kind of busy.) There’s been some backsliding, and I realized I need to incorporate some healthy habits for myself. So, this post is as much a note to self as tips for you if you’re looking to make some improvements. Living healthy and balancing work and family life isn’t easy, but there are plenty of simple steps to help you live and feel better. Here are just a few quick tips that can help you (and me) get on the right track to a healthier lifestyle.

1. Nix the fast food

You may think a healthy lifestyle means eating nothing but greens and drinking only water. However, getting on the right track consists of small steps in the right direction, and this can be as simple as just cutting out fast food and processed foods from the supermarkets.

2. Protect your skin

Daily sunscreen is the current recommendation and skin cancer is no joke. To help, use a moisturizer with a SPF15 or higher. If you wear makeup, you can buy foundation, primers, and BB cream with sunscreen.

3. Drink more water

If you’re not a fan of water and don’t usually drink any during an average day, start with just one glass. And if it’s a struggle to drink your water plain, consider adding a slice of fresh lemon or lemon juice, or investing in a water bottle with a fruit infuser. Gradually build up to drinking two liters of water per day.

4. Stretch every morning

Don’t underestimate the value of stretching to stay flexible. The main reason people start to feel stiff and full of aches is often just lack of movement. And if you suffer with joint pain or spend your days sitting at a desk or computer, it’s even more important. Gently stretching every morning is a habit which will help get your blood pumping and your muscles warmed up. It will help you feel better right away and for the long term.

5. Take the stairs

The main thing here is just to move. Some days we can’t seem to fit in regular exercise, but small, active additions to your day can add up. Take the stairs at the office, and if that’s too much, take one flight to start, then take the elevator the rest of the way. Park your car in the furthest space from the door at work or the store. Or go to the next bus stop for a few extra minutes of exercise. Even just standing up from your desk every hour will give your body a break and help you feel better.

6. Plan meals in advance

Deciding on your week’s menu beforehand can save money as well as help you get on the right track to a healthier lifestyle. There are lots of sites that can give you ideas and instructions of how to batch cook your meals. At the start of the week, or before you hit the grocery store, make a list of potential meals. Personally, I love leftovers, so cooking double batches is a great way to give me more healthy options with less effort. But even if you don’t like eating the same thing for more than one night, cooking in advance and storing in refrigerator or freezer-safe food containers helps to create quick and healthy weeknight meals.

So many ways to live a healthy life