This blog article has kindly been donated by Leslie Campos of WellParents.com.
It has taken me some time to get this article on here due to work commitments and then technical issues – so apologies Leslie, but thank you for your contribution to the ManCoaching Website.
Easy Hacks for a Healthier Lifestyle
If you’re like most people, you have experience with setting lofty health goals and failing. You’ve resolved to start the newest fad diet, fitness regimen, and self-care routine on Monday. However, Monday comes around and you keep pushing your start date back until it never happens. Or, maybe you dive into your life overhaul only to burn out after a week or a month because the changes were too drastic.
The key to developing healthy habits that stick is to take small, actionable steps today. Don’t try to transform your routine all at once, but don’t wait until tomorrow to start making meaningful changes. Here are some simple but significant changes you can start making in your life right now, courtesy of ManCoaching:
Do exercise your way.
People who let their fitness routine fizzle out usually don’t like the activities they are doing. When you don’t enjoy exercise, you’ll constantly be battling that sense of dread leading up to your next workout. Find something you like to do. If it’s been a while since you’ve done any form of physical activity, start with walking 30 minutes a day; this can increase your heart rate, help you burn some calories, and get you in the mindset of becoming fit.
Something else to consider is joining a local gym. They offer a plethora of opportunities to achieve their fitness and nutrition goals, whether it’s exercising on our top-notch equipment or working with our trainers and coaches.
Create a healthy atmosphere at home.
You should be able to retreat to your home after a long day and feel comfortable and relaxed. Unfortunately, many people’s homes add stress to their lives. Don’t let this happen to you.
Set aside a weekend to deep clean your living environment, and declutter a little bit each day. Add houseplants that can evoke calmness, purify the air, and boost oxygen in your home. Make sure your refrigerator is loaded with healthy eating options and filtered water. And make a space in your home for personal time and meditation. Turning your living environment into a healthy, stress-free atmosphere will do wonders for improving your quality of life.
Prep your meals.
Meal prepping is one of the most effective methods of ensuring you eat healthily. Not only does it allow you to choose each ingredient, but it also helps you to control your portions. Many experienced meal preppers choose one day a week to prepare meals for the rest of the week. If that sounds unrealistic, start by prepping one lunch or dinner per day. This will reduce the likelihood of you hitting up the drive-thru on your lunch break or after a long, hard day at work.
Don’t skip breakfast.
Speaking of meals, breakfast is essential — it’s also the easiest to skip. But breakfast gets your metabolism going for the day and gives your brain the boost it needs to perform well. Plus, people who eat breakfast every day typically have a lower body mass index (BMI). If you add lean meat, eggs, peanut butter, or another protein-rich source to your breakfast, you’ll have more energy throughout the day.
Establish a nighttime routine.
Lastly, get sleep. Your health and well-being depend on getting sufficient sleep each night. Turn the temperature down, dim the lights, and avoid electronic devices in your bedroom. Listen to soothing music, take a hot bath, and do some light stretches before getting into bed. Figure out a nighttime routine that helps you get into a steady sleep rhythm.
If you want to make healthy, lasting changes to your lifestyle, don’t try to conquer Rome in a day. Make your home accommodate your health goals, prepare your meals in advance, and eat breakfast each day. Create a fitness routine that you enjoy, and take steps to foster your nightly sleep. In no time, you’ll start realizing the benefits of your healthy choices!
ManCoaching is a service delivered to men by men, providing effective, direct and results-driven support to men that are facing challenges in their lives. Call 0754 5501021.