Do you take better care of your motor vehicle than you do your body? That does seem to be the case with many people. They may be conscientious about getting regularly scheduled oil changes, tune-ups, and whatever other maintenance is needed for their automobiles. But when it comes to giving their body top-notch care, things are not always as intentional.
With so many responsibilities at home and work and demands on your time, it's easy to overlook your body’s most basic needs. And before you know it, you begin to experience "breakdowns" here and there. Giving your body regular maintenance will allow you to operate more efficiently and have greater well-being.
Consider these easy ways to take care of your body even with a busy lifestyle.
Take Better Care of Your Body at Home
- Exercise regularly. Strengthen your heart and muscles and increase your circulation by getting regular physical activity. Find a variety of activities you enjoy so you'll stick with your program.
- Get quality sleep. Most adults need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. Stick to a regular bedtime. Keep your bedroom dark and quiet. Avoid meals within 3 hours of bedtime and bright computer screens within an hour of bedtime, so that you can fall asleep quicker and get deeper, better rest.
- Eat whole foods. Consume natural, whole foods like fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These foods are rich in nutrients and fiber, help fight disease, and assists to optimize wellness.
- Prepare your meals. While eating out occasionally can be an enjoyable thing to do; making it a regular practice can have adverse effects on your health (not to mention your wallet). Meal planning can help save time. Pick one of your days off and prepare meals for the week.
- Clean your space. The air inside your home could be more polluted than the air outside. Keep dust mites, pet hair, and mold under control by dusting regularly, keeping animals off the chairs, sofas, and beds, and using a HEPA air filter.
- Take occasional baths. Your regular daily hygiene may include taking a shower. However, taking a bath once or twice a week can bring extra therapeutic benefits. A mildly warm bath can promote relaxation and soothe sore muscles. Adding a few drops of lavender essential oils brings extra benefits.
Take Better Care of Your Body Away From Home
- Drink more water. Staying hydrated is a free and easy way to help keep your body in top condition from the inside out. Water is beneficial for your heart, muscles, skin, and all the cells in your body.
- Move more. Design your workstation so you can shift easily between sitting and standing. Take breaks about every half hour when you're working. Use that time to take a quick walk around the halls or stretch your legs in your office.
- Avoid snacking. Skip the candy, cookies, and other snacks. This saves you from unwanted pounds and keeps your immune system stronger. You will need determination to stick with this, especially during the holidays.
- Relieve stress. Job stress is a major source of pressure for many adults. If you're struggling with a demanding boss or complicated office politics, find relaxation practices to help you through your day. Try deep breathing exercises, listen to inspirational instrumental music as you work, or take a quick walk on your lunchtime.
Let's face it; you only have one body, so why not take the best care of it? Place the care of your body as a priority and develop daily habits that enhance your overall well-being.