We all want to look great and feel phenomenal all day, every day, but sometimes it seems like the journey to overall wellness takes a lot of detours. The trick is in finding a holistic approach that works with your lifestyle. Here are a few ideas from #iDARE on things that can make you look and feel your best every single day!
It’s a pretty simple bottom line: everything you put into your body impacts the way you look, feel, and even think. Fad diets, too much alcohol or caffeine, and a diet high in refined sugars and fats will all leave you feeling blah. Start by swapping out one unhealthy habit with a new healthy one each week. It could be as simple as replacing a cup of regular coffee with decaf or exchanging a hamburger patty with fish or skinless chicken breast. According to Heart UK, a heart-healthy diet starts with vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. The better you feel, the more compelled you’ll be to continue altering your diet in positive ways.
You don’t have to join a fancy fitness centre or invest in a home gym to start stepping up your exercise – you just have to move. Dance in your kitchen (if listening to music out loud isn't an option, get some good-quality headphones so you can listen comfortably to your favorite tunes), walk the dog, run stairs, or go for a swim. Your goal is to increase your heart rate. Consider using a fitness tracker or app that helps you count steps, and give yourself a daily goal. Enlist a friend or family member to be an exercise buddy and keep you accountable! If it helps, establish a non-food reward system for yourself when you hit certain goals and milestones.
When you’re embarking on a wellness campaign, it’s always wise to consult with your primary care physician to ensure you’re managing your health in a way that’s appropriate for your age and physical ability. This is a good time to get check-ups, including with your eye doctor and dentist. Vision issues can become more problematic with age, but it’s important to learn what’s common and what’s not. Also note the activities you can do to protect your vision today including regular exercise, eating a diet rich in green, leafy vegetables and fish, and wearing protective eye gear.
If you have misaligned teeth, get them taken care of. According to Prevention, crooked teeth can lead to plaque build-up and bacterial infections that impact your whole body. At-home aligners can work wonders in gradually moving your teeth into place. A majority of the work can be done at home, saving you time and money, though severely misaligned teeth often require in-office treatment. In addition to a good health move, and an easier time brushing and flossing, nice straight teeth will give you a beautiful, winning smile!
When’s the last time you updated your wardrobe?
It might be time to clean out your closet and treat yourself to a few new items that will make you feel your best. If you’re on a budget, shop sales and upscale thrift stores. If you’ve got friends with similar tastes and styles, host a clothing swap! Even a few nice staple pieces will allow you to update your look. A new hairstyle can also work wonders on the psyche; try a bold new cut or colour to mark the start of a new phase of life.
One of the reasons many of us put off new health and wellness routines is because we prioritize everyone but ourselves. Move away from that mindset by intentionally carving out time that’s just for you. Meditate, practice yoga, start a new book series, or set aside “do not disturb” time to just “be.” Taking the time to centre and focus yourself will pay dividends and help you look and feel your best!
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