A healthy lifestyle isn’t just about exercise and diet. Mental and emotional health are just as important as physical health; they have an impact on how you feel as well as on your overall well-being. So, how about some ways to ‘spring clean’ your MIND and your LIFE?
One of the best things we can do for ourselves is destress. Have a serious conversation with yourself about your stress levels. Analyze what you can do to reduce your stress. It might not be easy, but there's probably something you can change to make your life less difficult. Yes, there will always be stress and tension in your life, BUT:
1) Some hassles are somewhat self-created and can be avoided. Replace the phrase “I wish I...” with “Next time I’ll...” (e.g. getting up on time so you don’t have to rush)
2) For the stress that seems unavoidable, consider your response to it. Legitimate concern doesn’t mean you have to flip out. Try to have a more sensible reaction.
Get more sleep. We never seem to have enough time in our day, so we cut into our sleep. What’s more, that lack of sleep is a badge of honor worn proudly by many to demonstrate dedication or success. The problem is that proper sleep is critical to your health. Sleep helps our brain sort through the events of the day, improving daytime cognition. It helps our body recover after workouts. Sleep even improves emotional well-being. In contrast, lack of sleep increases cortisol, a stress hormone that, over time, contributes to weight gain and other detrimental health effects. Lack of sleep can also make you feel more stressed and irritable during the day, and that's not good for anybody!
Next, try decluttering your schedule. We’re always so busy - you don’t need to say ‘yes’ all the time to friends or work. Set aside some time each week to be with family you don’t see as often. Also, carve out some time purely for yourself. Watch a video that makes you laugh, binge a few episodes of your favorite show, take on a new hobby or lace up those sneakers and go for a walk or hike! Life is becoming more complicated, so scheduling some self-care has become more important than ever.
Declutter on social media. Try muting or unfriending anyone who posts things that upset you. Hold yourself back from actively commenting when you know it’s going to start a conflict. Scroll past upsetting posts that you might not agree with and don’t let them affect your mindset for the day. Also, cut back on the political stress that is so common these days. Try unfollowing all politically motivated posts that appear on your feed and instead, stay informed by checking reliable news sources only once a day or every other day (try it – the world won’t end, I promise). It’s good to step away and filter. A social media cleanse is an effective way to reduce the anxiety and stress that can build up from being so connected. It’s much better to use these platforms to foster healthy friendships instead.
BONUS: While you’re at it, reduce screen time all together. Purposefully keep your hands off of your phone for a scheduled block of time each day. You’ll be surprised how often you find yourself reaching for it. In place of the device, try picking up a book you’ve always wanted to read or try a new relaxing hobby.
Or exercise! Join us for our next installment: Spring Cleaning for your Fitness Routine!