Everyone longs for better health. We need energy and vitality to accomplish all we must do at women. Yet, we get bombarded with all of the media hype, supplement ads and magazine articles. It can be so discouraging and we end up tossing our hands in the air and giving up on better health. As the old saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles must be taken one step at a time.” This is also true with our health. Here are 7 steps you can take today to improve your health right now!
7 Small Steps to Improve Your Health Today
- Eat healthfully. Let’s be honest. We all know what foods are not healthy – fast food, fried foods, junk food, processed food – all the stuff that really hurts our bodies and bogs us down. We have to choose better options. This doesn’t have to be fresh vegetable juice and raw nuts. Choose a piece of fruit and almond butter and toast for breakfast instead of a drive-thru breakfast sandwich. Take your lunch to work instead of getting take-out with the gang. Plan your dinner menu and stick to it. Just making sure your fuel intake is high test will help your body heal and make you feel better instantly.
- Just drink water. Over 50% of the human body is water. Yet time and again, when we’re thirsty, we grab a cup of coffee or a carbonated soda. Water promotes hydration and keeps your body’s systems running at optimal levels. I’m not suggesting that you drink several gallons of water a day, but rather, when you are thirsty or having something to drink – choose water! Just substitute whatever you would normally drink for fresh, clean H2O.
- Practice good dental hygiene. Your mouth talks for you in more ways that one. We all know bad breath can be an indicator of poor brushing and flossing, but did you also know if can indicate other health issues in the body? Schedule your regular dental cleaning and check-ups. Not only will it keep your smile pretty, but it can also keep more serious issues at bay.
- Get your beauty sleep. It is so important that you get enough sleep! Not only does this allow your body to rest, but while you are sleeping many processes take place that restore health and renew energy. Rest will sharpen your attention and help you learn. Sleep will improve your memory and creativity. Most importantly, a good night’s sleep will curb inflammation in your body, help you lose weight, lower stress levels and help you live longer!
- Walk every day. I don’t mean from the chair to the refrigerator and back! Purposely, take a walk each and every day of your life. Walking not only helps you lose weight and improve physical health, but studies have shown that it will also improve your mental health. If you haven’t been physically active, begin with a short walk and work your way up to an hour a day. Not only will you enjoy the health benefits from walking, but walking with a friend or your spouse can also improve your relationships.
- See your doctor. I’m not at expert, but even I know the first and most important thing to do before applying any of these ideas is to go and get a check-up with your physician. We all hate going to the doctor, but doing so sets the foundation for better health. We live in the greatest country in the entire world for healthcare. Take advantage of this blessing and improve your health with the help of your doctor.
- Commit your health to the Lord. Exercise can improve physical strength. Good health practices can improve your measurements and help make you physically fit. True health is a gift from God. Our times and days are in His hands and while I must be a good steward of what He has entrusted me with, my life is in God’s control. Take a moment each morning and give yourself to your Creator. Ask the Lord to help you make wise choices and care for your body in a way pleasing to Him.
While good health isn’t turned on in an instant, taking these small steps can propel you forward and get you closer to the goal. Don’t wait until tomorrow or next Monday! Start right now, implements these ideas and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying better health!