Everyone wants to be healthier. To have more energy, to feel stronger, to have a better metabolism, to get sick less often, and recover quicker. But the truth is there is no "one size fits all" cookie-cutter workout or diet program that will solve all of your problems. It takes a unique, personalized approach to really reach your body's optimal health.
Fitness is about what works for YOU. That's why if you can't see yourself doing that diet or exercise strategy for at least a year or more at a time, you shouldn't be doing it at all. Check out these 6 tips for a longer, healthier life. Grab a few that work for you and add them to your daily routine. Then work up to doing more and more, adding small habit changes over time at your own pace.
1. Prioritize Your Zzz's
Sleep is probably the biggest healthy-living hack out there. Consistently getting 7-9 hours of sleep a night will change your entire life, guaranteed. If you have poor sleep habits, try these tips: turn the lights off 2 hours before bedtime and go by only dim, warm lighting. Wear blue light blockers if you'll be using your phone, laptop, or TV within 2 hours of bedtime. When you get tired, turn off the electronics and go to bed. Turn the thermostat down to 70 degrees or below, snuggle up in bed, and get those Zzz's girl. Bonus tip: chamomile tea is a great sleepy too.
2. Prep Fruits and Veggies Ahead of Time
Even if you're not into meal prepping, I highly recommend keeping fresh-cut fruits and veggies readily available in your fridge. Cut some carrots, celery, and cucumber to store in a Tupperware in the fridge. Slice lemons and keep in a container for your water throughout the week. Have berries, sliced watermelon and pineapple, bananas, and apples readily available too. Whatever produce you love, make sure plenty of it is available for grab and go to promote healthy snacking. Don't forget to grab some frozen fruits and veggies too! They last a long time in the freezer and are easy to cook up in a pinch. Plus frozen produce has the same (if not better) nutrient quality as fresh produce.
3. Move Your Body
Exercise means different things to different people. Maybe for now, set a goal to just get up and move your body at least twice a day for 10 minutes each time. Walk to a coffee shop for an afternoon pick me up, do some stretches, walk the dog or the kids (or both). Just get outside and move. Set an alarm on your phone if you have to and remind yourself to take this much-needed break.
4. Utilize Technology
With all the apps and fitness tech available nowadays I guarantee there's something out there that will fit your budget and lifestyle. I personally think everyone should have a fitness tracker of some kind. I recommend the Apple Watch for my iPhone people. Don't focus too much on the exact numbers, but instead use it as a reference for your lifestyle. For example, it can be a great tool to assess how many calories you're burning or how many steps you take each day. There are also tons of apps out there to help with your fitness journey, I even have an app for my clients to deliver their workouts and nutrition plans!
5. Always Have Water With You
No matter where you go or what you do, always bring a large container of water with you. I carry a metal half-gallon bottle of water around everywhere because it is the only way I've found I can get in a gallon a day. Or maybe a bottle with times written on it would help you drink consistently. Whatever it is, do it. Staying hydrated is crucial for a happy, healthy body and mind.
6. Plan Ahead
Don't get caught having to make last minute decisions when it comes to fitness or you'll likely make the easiest one instead of the one that better fits your goals. Plan meals each day or cook ahead for several days to avoid getting caught hungry without food available. Plan workouts to stay on track and avoid skipping out on the gym. Plan to get more sleep by getting to bed at a decent time. Everything in life requires decisions. So make it easier on yourself by making those decisions ahead of time. You know what they say: fail to prepare and you are preparing to fail.
The truth is, the biggest "health hack" of all is that your body knows exactly what it needs, all you have to do is learn to listen to it.