Simple First Steps to Improved Well Being
There a three simple first steps that you can get started with straight away. They can get the ball rolling towards you being able to make positive changes to your overall wellbeing.
Step 1: Get Enough Sleep
Sleep should be your number 1 priority and we need between 7 and 9 hours sleep every night. If we don’t make sleep our number 1 priority the latest sleep research shows us it can have a devastating impact on our wellbeing and has been linked to:
Lowered Immunity
Higher risks of disease, including cancer, heart disease and diabetes
High blood pressure
Low mood, poor mental health and poor emotional regulation
Impaired cognitive ability on a par with alcohol intake
Impaired memory
Cravings and increased food intake leading to weight gain
Poor impulse control leading to terrible decision making
Step 2: Feed Your Mind and Body
In order for your mind and body to function properly we need to feed it a nutrient rich diet. The first step on this journey is fairly simple. Reduce the amount of processed foods in your diet and increase the amount of whole foods and plants. Any movement you make with this simple step is positive. You will notice the difference immediately in terms of improved concentration, focus and energy levels to name but a few. Upping your intake of nuts, seeds, mushrooms, fruit, leafy green and cruciferous vegetables is highly recommended.
Step 3: Move Your Body Often
Physical activity has huge benefits to both your mental and physical health. So what physical activity is best? The one that you enjoy the most and will be most motivated to do on a regular basis! An additional level is to think that we are in it for the long term, and that for quality of life as we age, functional strength and functional movement will be key. Working on flexibility and strength now will keep you mobile and able to enjoy life long into your later years, and it is never too late to start.
Recommended Books:
(Amazon Affiliate Links)
Why We Sleep
A great book to delve into all things sleep and why it is so important for our health, well-being and performance
How Not To Die Cookbook
A great resource of simple recipes and meal plans to get more of the good stuff inside of you for better health.
