A recent Gallup Poll shows us that 38% of people are getting less exercise in 2021, with just 14% saying they’re getting more, and 48% saying the amount is unchanged. We’ve long known that exercise is great for looking and feeling great, but its benefits go far beyond! In addition to reducing your risk of issues like heart disease or diabetes, eating clean and exercising are also great for your mental health. People who exercise regularly see clear benefits in several areas of their life, including:
- Higher self-esteem – exercise helps you look great and feel great about yourself and your body
- More restful and regular sleep – exercise helps regulate sleep patterns and helps you rest more fitfully
- Better stress management – exercise can help you cope in a healthy way with life’s’ stresses and challenges
- Less reliance on anti-anxiety treatments – exercise is proven to reduce the risk of anxiety and depression, and is also a great, endorphin boosting spot treatment for stresses throughout the day
- Sharper memory and thinking skills – exercise stimulates the growth of new brain cells and faster connections
- More emotional and physical energy – the stronger your body is, the more resilient your mind will be, leaving you with more energy to complete tasks and be productive
It’s important to take short breaks throughout the day, and fill that down-time with exercise. Take a quick walk outdoors when you need a break from work, or do a quick yoga routine between meetings, to stay mentally and physically alert and attentive throughout the day.
Benefits of eating healthy and exercising
Easy Ways to Workout, Without a Gym
You don’t need a gym membership or hours of free time per day to incorporate head-healthy exercise. Get up between tasks and mow the lawn or clean your yard for some quick exercise. You can also walk or bike to places you would normally drive, or simply use stairs over elevators or escalators. Finally, get your family involved and plan family activities outdoors. Bike rides, canoeing or walking the dog are great ways to get in a workout with your family.
Eating Clean & Living Clear
The World Health Organization wants us to remember that a lack of physical activity and poor diet are the leading global risks to everyone’s health. There is a very close connection between your diet, and your emotions and mental health. Your brain is so closely connected to your gastrointestinal tract, it’s often called the “second brain.” There are several different types of clean foods proven to take your health commitments to the next-level.
- Whole foods
- Fiber
- Antioxidants
- Water
- Vegetables and fruits
- Good protein and healthy fat sources
When you start a new, cleaner diet, you must give your body time to rid itself of all the toxins that have been building up. Many new dieters experience flu-like, SIBO symptoms, as these toxins work their way out of your body. Just keep with it!
Easy Ways to Change Your Eating Habits
It’s important to remember a new, healthier diet doesn’t mean boiled chicken and raw veggies. It simply means replacing sugary or carb-heavy foods, that will give you energy but will eventually cause a crash, with healthier vegetables, fruit, beans, nuts and other foods rich in nutrients. Make clean eating and exercise a fun part of your daily life, that you really look forward to!
- Look into visiting local farmers markets, where you can buy fresher foods, grown locally
- Eat a rainbow of veggies and fruits, like bell peppers, strawberries or blueberries
- Incorporate more healthy fats, like those found in avocados, olives and fish like Salmon or Mackerel
- Invest in a healthy food delivery service to ensure you have all the healthy foods you need, readily available
- Make eating healthy an outdoor activity, and take the family to pick their own produce at a local farm
The last year has made many people feel that their lives are out of control. Eating healthier and committing to getting more exercise are great ways to stay healthier mentally and physically, but also give you a sense of control over your life and your body – something we all need right now. Take some time today to plan out your new head and body healthy eating and exercise habits, and see the benefits take root in every area of your life.
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