The celebrated day created by The World Health Organization falls every year on April 7th. It is a day dedicated to promoting the benefits of good health and wellbeing worldwide.
All over the globe, we each suffer with daily personal wellbeing struggles. Whether it is a financial worry, having poor housing conditions, fewer employment opportunities, experiences of inequality, or a lack of access to health services, all these lead to various levels of suffering, illness, and poor mental/physical health.
Here at Incorpore, we believe that everyone should have equal opportunities, and everyone should have access to methods that better their lifestyle. This is why we offer a range of discounted wellbeing services, making them more accessible to more people.
Even though World Health Day only comes around once a year, you should still strive to maintain your health and wellness all year round! We are aware that being consistent in self-care is not always easy when you are busy or stressed, but finding simple ways to look after your health should be one of your top priorities. We only have one body, so it is important that we take care of it to live a long, happy, and healthy life.
To help, we have produced a few ways to help improve your overall health and wellbeing. It is understandable and fair to say that all of us have moments of self-doubt and laziness where we feel unmotivated to work out or be healthy. However, finding a new perspective can be beneficial.
Here are 6 ways to help you lead a healthier lifestyle:
Set yourself achievable exercise goals
Start with realistic goals. It is easy to get frustrated and give up if your goals are too ambitious. If you have not exercised in a while, a short-term goal might be to walk 10 minutes a day five days a week. Even short amounts of exercise can have benefits. An intermediate goal might be to walk 30 minutes five days a week. A long-term goal might be to complete a 5K walk.
Give your mind & body rest with a good night sleep
Your sleep routine starts before you get into bed so build in time every evening to wind down – and try to switch off from your tech. Things like reading, gentle stretches or meditation are an effective way to unwind. Having caffeine, alcohol or nicotine or a big meal too close to bedtime can prevent you from sleep. If you lie awake worrying, set aside time to make a to-do list for the next day – this can put your mind at rest. Exercise will make your body tired and in need to rest, therefore resulting in a better night sleep.
Make tasty recipes that are healthy!
Stop thinking of it as “Healthy Food” or associating foods as unlikeable when you have not stuck with them yet! When cooking or making your own recipes, do not be afraid to use salt, sugar, fat, or carbs. Studies have shown that associative conditioning (pairing foods with liked flavours) can increase liking of a food. Save an extra 10 minutes in your day or make a salad or sandwich for your lunch the next day instead of caving in on fast food- much cheaper and more nutritious.
Learn to reward yourself
After each exercise session, take a few minutes to savour the good feelings that exercise gives you. This type of internal reward can help you make a long-term commitment to regular exercise. External rewards can help too. When you reach a longer-range goal, treat yourself to a new pair of walking shoes or new tunes to enjoy while you exercise.
Maybe rethink your role model
Barbie’s still the first role model many young girls are drawn to. But let us be honest, real women do not look like dolls. Select positive role models that help you feel good about who you are, rather than ones who make you feel bad. Whether you are comparing yourself to models, celebrities, or bodybuilders, it is unrealistic and not good for anyone’s mental wellbeing. Focus on yourself and how to improve your strengths, not anyone else’s. Exercise results takes time, be patient. Find a role model who is strong, healthy — and real!
Find yourself a support system
We all need support every now and again, so it’s important to have someone who gives you a reason to hang in there when you cannot muster determination from within. It does not matter where the support comes from, a spouse, friend, co-worker, or others. Think of five people who might be in your cheering section. People that you can work out with, walk the dog, or cook with! Talk to these people about giving you support and holding you accountable as you work to reach your weight loss or health goals. Call upon your cheering section when you are having trouble sticking with good health habits. When you do reach small weight loss or exercise goals, invite your support group to celebrate with you.
