When we think of health, we often think of physical health and our ability to exercise and eat right. But there's so much more to being healthy than just physical things. Our mental health is just as important, which is why it's so crucial to cultivate habits that will make us happy and keep us healthy. I would love to share with you 6 of my habitual lifestyle routines that have been so essential to me and my family in the last 5 years, and a key to my daily successes.
1. Getting Enough Sleep
Most of us need around eight hours of sleep per night. My work personally requires a lot of time, especially with loads of deadlines to meet. However, some of us need more or less sleep depending on our age, lifestyle, and health. Getting enough sleep is important for our overall health and well-being.
There are many benefits to getting enough sleep. Good sleep can help improve your mood, increase energy levels, and help promote better mental and physical health. Additionally, getting enough sleep can help improve concentration and memory.
There are a few things I do to make sure I get enough sleep each night. First, I establish a regular sleep schedule, this is one of the most important things I do. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep. Instead, try relaxation techniques such as reading or taking a warm bath before bedtime. Creating a calm and comfortable environment in your bedroom will help promote better sleep.
2. Drink Lots of Water
Drinking lots of water is one of the most important habits of a healthy and happy person. It is essential for our bodies to function properly and to remain hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins, aids in digestion, and keeps our skin looking good.
It is recommended that we drink eight glasses of water per day, but this may vary depending on your activity level and the climate you live in. If you are active or live in a hot climate, you will need to drink more water than someone who is sedentary or lives in a cooler climate. Drink water throughout the day, rather than waiting until you are thirsty. Thirst is a sign that you are already dehydrated, so it is important to drink water regularly throughout the day to prevent thirst.
If you find it difficult to drink enough water, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Carry a reusable water bottle with you so that you always have access to water. Drink water with meals and snacks. And, try adding some flavor to your water by squeezing fresh lemon or lime juice into it.
3. Have a Positive Attitude
It’s been said that our attitudes are like habits and that we can choose our attitudes just like we choose our habits. So if you want to be a healthy and happy person, one of the best things you can do is to develop a positive attitude.
Here are some ways to do that:
Seek out, positive people
Spending time with positive people is contagious, it has helped improve my attitude and mental stay. I don’t roll with people who spend much time on the dark side, I love the fun parasites because it is what is needed on days when nothing seems to click.
Happiness is free, surround yourself with friends and family who make you feel good about yourself, and who will support you through tough times.
Avoid negative self-talk
We all have an inner critic, but it’s important to try not to listen to it too much. If you find yourself regularly putting yourself down or thinking negative thoughts about yourself, try to catch yourself and reframe those thoughts in a more positive light. It takes practice, but eventually, it will become second nature.
Focus on the good, not the bad.
4. Take Time to Reflect on the Good Things of Life
It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget to take a step back and reflect on the good things. But taking a few moments each day to appreciate the good things in your life can make a big difference in your overall happiness and health.
Some things you can reflect on each day include:
Your accomplishments, big or small
The people in your life who make you happy
Things you're grateful for
The positive experiences you've had recently
Taking just a few minutes each day to think about the good things in your life can help improve your mood, increase your resilience, and boost your overall health. So next time you're feeling stressed or down, take a few minutes to reflect on the good things in your life and see how much better you feel afterward.
5. Keep a Journal of Your Thoughts and Feelings
One of the best ways to stay healthy and happy is to keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings. This will allow you to track your progress and identify any patterns in your thinking or behavior that may be causing you stress. Additionally, writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you to process them more effectively and come up with solutions to problems.
If you are not sure how to get started, try setting aside some time each day to write in your journal. You can write about anything that is on your mind, including your goals, fears, worries, and joys. Be honest with yourself and don’t worry about grammar or spelling – this is for your eyes only! Once you get into the habit of journaling, you may find it easier and more enjoyable.
If you are looking for a more structured approach, there are many different types of journals available online or at your local bookstore. Some people prefer to use bullet journaling as a way to organize their thoughts, while others find it helpful to use prompts such as “Today I am grateful for…” or “What made me smile today?” No matter what method you choose, journaling can be a powerful tool for promoting health and happiness.
6. Practice Gratitude
When you wake up in the morning, take a moment to think of three things that you’re grateful for. This can be anything from your bed to the sun shining outside. By starting your day with gratitude, you’re setting the tone for a positive and happy day.
Throughout the day, make an effort to notice the little things that make you happy. Maybe it’s a good cup of coffee or a funny text from a friend. Whatever it is, take a moment to appreciate it and feel grateful.
Before you go to bed at night, take some time to reflect on your day and think of three things that made you happy. This could be anything from a fun conversation with a coworker to finally finishing that project you’ve been working on.
Gratitude has been shown to improve sleep quality, by practicing it before bedtime, you might find yourself sleeping better too!