I know how hard it can be to simply start bettering yourself and prioritizing your health, so I’m giving you 5 simple tips for creating a healthy lifestyle. Creating an overall healthy lifestyle encompasses your physical, mental and spiritual health. Making sure you take time for each is important to have an all-around balance. 

1. Move your body

The key to start is just that. Start walking, start biking, start taking yoga classes. Whatever moving your body looks like to you, do it. If you don’t want to go to the gym and take an hour-long Spin class, you don’t have to. If you want to take up CrossFit, go try it out! The best thing we can do for our bodies is to move it! “A body in motion, stays in motion.” – Sir Isaac Newton

2. Drink more water

You’re probably rolling your eyes at this one, but there’s a reason so many people advocate drinking more water! First things first, our bodies are made up of 60% water so it’s no secret we should be consuming more of it! Water is essential for our kidneys and other bodily functions. From regulating our body temperature to clearing up our skin, water has many endless benefits and should be a staple in your day to day routine for a healthy lifestyle.

3. Choose whole foods over processed foods

Whole foods are foods that have been unprocessed and free of any additives before consuming. Eating a variety of different whole foods are important for our body to get the recommended nutrients and minerals are body needs. Some examples of whole foods are: whole grains, legumes, fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as avocados and some nuts. A good rule of thumb is to shop on the outer aisles of the grocery store where the fresh produce is. The aisles are usually packed with processed, packaged foods. 

4. Create a morning routine

Having a morning routine can set you up for success and help create healthy habits. It doesn’t have to be a long list of daunting tasks. Think simple, self-care tasks like eating a nutritious breakfast, making your bed, journaling, or planning out your day. This should be something for yourself, that puts you first! Life gets in the way and sometimes we forget to take care of ourselves so create a routine you can stick to!

5. De-stress

This can be hard at first, but finding a way to de-stress can make all the difference! Maybe it’s reading a book, stepping away from your desk, meditating, yoga, taking a walk, etc. Whatever it is that relaxes or calms you down, make it a priority when needed. Stress and anxiety can raise our cortisol levels which can have negative effects on our health, so finding an outlet is super helpful during those times!

I challenge you to implement one or all of these tips into your life! If you do, I’d love to hear how you’re going to create a healthier lifestyle!