5 Ways to Start Living Healthy
If there’s one thing that the craziness of 2020 has taught us, it’s that living healthy is something that should be on our minds. These are difficult times because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but they’re also a good reminder that our mental and physical health are important, and that it’s never too late to begin adopting healthier lifestyle changes.
If you’re looking for ways to start living healthy, congratulations! Simply reading this article is a good first step towards exactly that. Living healthy doesn’t necessarily mean changing your entire life, buying tons of fancy equipment, and signing up to every at-home fitness program you see. In fact, it can be done by making some small changes that add up to a big positive impact.
So, we’ve pulled together some tips that are currently keeping us feeling meantally and physically well, along with the brands who help to make it happen.
5 Ways to Start Living Healthy
Get Outside
Did you know that the average American spends 90% of their life indoors [1]?!? Not only is this kind of, well, boring, but it also takes a serious toll on one’s mental and physical health. Being outside is essential to absorb adequate levels of vitamin D. It makes it easier to get adequate exercise, and it elevates moods, concentration, memory and healing. Studies [2] have shown that spending time in nature reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other health issues—and that forests give our immune systems a much needed boost [3].
We think an escape with Getaway House is just what the doctor ordered. They have peaceful tiny cabins located close to some of the US’s major cities (but far enough away to be surrounded by trees). We can’t wait to pack our bags with our favorite outdoor gear from Cairn and head out to experience some of Mother Earth’s medicine.
Prioritize Your Health
Yes, health is more important than who’s going to win those reruns of The Bachelor. It’s more important than that promotion at work, and definitely more important than staying up until 4 am watching Tik Tok videos. Our health is the most important thing we’ve got, and we could all do a better job of acting like it.
Prioritizing health can start with prioritizing exercise and nutrition, and what better way to do that than with the help of some protein powder from Earth Fed Muscle?! Psst, their Witch’s Whey Pumpkin Spice Protein is a perfect way to celebrate autumn. Protein-packed PSL, anyone?
Pay Attention to Your Nutrition
Speaking of nutrition, if you’ve been making your way through all those ramen noodles you panickedly stockpiled back in March, now’s the time to begin incorporating some super-healthy and immune-boosting foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. We get it, you’re busy. You’re still getting used to working from home and don’t have the time or mental capacity to learn the ins-and-outs of nutrition. Fortunately, finding support may be easier than you think.
We love working with the holistic medicine experts at Parsley Health—and think you will too. Their care team, personalized lab work, and plan recommendations help to demystify nutrition and are perfect for anyone with a new-found appreciation for living healthy.
Cultivate a Positive Mindset
Physical health is great and all, but without adequate mental health you’re still missing a very key aspect of what it means to be living healthy. Having a positive mindset is one of the best things we can do for our mental health. It can help to support us when faced with stressful situations, it can boost our immune systems, and it can improve our overall well-being—especially when we’re coping with problems.
Cultivating a positive mindset isn’t as easy as just “looking on the bright side,” and for that, we’re thankful for having the support of Headspace. Their meditation subscription has been a lifesaver during pandemic fears and election anxieties. From sleep to stress, the app can help us all find the “bright side” when faced with any difficulty.
Take Time for Self-Care
Did you know that the Greek word for self-care (philautia) translates to “love of self?” And this is something we can all be doing more of. Self-care is not only essential, but it’s also… fun! When was the last time you truly took some time for yourself to do something that you love? Whether it’s taking a long bubble bath, curling up with your favorite book, or even painting your nails, it’s important to connect to your body and be aware of its needs. You don’t need a spa visit or a 14-day yoga retreat to #TreatYoSelf, feeling good can be much easier than that—and it’s possible from home.
Chillhouse makes it easy to buy the chill goods that make us feel good. They’ve got a range of skin, bath, and body products (and much more) that are perfect for any self-care routine. So, slow down, lather up, and show yourself some much-deserved love. You can also opt to switch to all natural and sustainable brands such as Terra&Co - we use enamel safe activated charcoal, derived from coconut shells, waste from the food industry in our products such as our award-winning Brilliant Black Dental Floss or Brilliant Black Oil Pulling!
Let’s Start Living Healthy, Together
We know that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of tips for living healthy—and we’d love to hear them! Share your favorite recipes, tools, and practices in the comments below!
Sources:
[1]: https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/a-prescription-for-better-health-go-alfresco
