Are there any ways to feel healthy? In today’s society, there is pressure to look and feel a certain way. This usually results in people buying into fad diets, feeling inadequate, and overworking themselves. The pressure to be healthy is especially prevalent as the obesity rate in America reaches almost 40%.
Obesity comes with numerous health risks like heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and more. Our weight and health have a huge impact on almost every aspect of ourselves, from affecting our mental health to causing symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Instead of dieting and exercising to the brink of complete exhaustion, here are five ways to feel healthy.
5 Ways to Feel Healthy
Let’s take a look at some ways that you can implement in 2020 to become healthier, whether you are obese or not.
Self-Care
The pressure to be attractive and successful is something that most people have felt. It’s a large weight to carry, especially when you falsely believe you aren’t living up to the expectations you’ve created for yourself. These expectations can affect the way you view yourself and can take a toll on your mental health.
To combat that, take some time to appreciate and love yourself. A little self-care goes a long way, so splurge on a new bath bomb or face mask to use, take a walk, enjoy a cup of tea, or meditate. Find something that makes you happy and comfortable with yourself and do it!
Stretch
Most doctors recommend exercising for at least 10 minutes a day. Life can be busy. Sometimes you don’t have time to go to the gym or you want to stay in the comforts of your own home. While there are plenty of home workouts you can try, at the very least, spend 10 minutes stretching.
You can stretch a little in the morning to wake yourself up, stretch while you are at work, and stretch before you go to bed. Stretching can help you manage your stress and improve your posture, which can benefit your overall health and give you a more positive attitude.
Try New Activities
Sometimes not feeling healthy is the result of being in a rut. Trying new things during this time can help you feel more confident and pleased with your life. You can start at home by trying to cook a new meal or play a new game with your family. Trying new fitness activities, like Zumba, rock-climbing, or yoga can be a way to get a workout in while also building a new hobby.
Sleep
Sleep is one of life’s greatest joys, yet many adults don’t get the rest they need. Sleeping for seven to eight hours each night helps lower your risk for serious health problems and stay at a healthy weight. Plus, you’ll wake up more refreshed and ready to seize the day.
Support
Trying to make a big change on your own is hard. Losing weight, opening-up about personal struggles, and becoming more self-assured is a journey… one that you shouldn’t have to make alone. When you are ready to change, build a support group. Tell your friends, family, and counselor. Create a community of people you can rely on to help you when the journey gets tough.
Healthy doesn’t mean skinny. Being healthy starts with you physically and mentally trying your best to be present and comfortable with yourself. Your personal health should be one of your top priorities—don’t wait until health risks scare you, start your journey to wellness now!
