When it comes to bettering your health, you’ve got to take it one step at a time.
Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash
Introducing too many changes at once will only lead to overwhelm, meaning you are far more likely to give up on your goals than persevere. With that in mind, here are five small steps that you can take toward better health!
- Quit smoking. Quitting smoking is one of the best things that you can do for your health moving forward, especially when you consider the risk associated with prolonged smoking and nicotine addiction. While you may be willing to do so, quitting cold turkey is not always the most effective way to leave cigarettes behind, as doing so could mean that you’re more likely to give in to rising cravings. Instead, use tools to support you throughout your cessation journey, whether that’s a prefilled vape kit or nicotine patches.
- Start each day with a healthy breakfast. According to a recent study, one in four adults regularly skips breakfast. However, starting your day with a healthy, balanced meal can be a real game-changer. For example, it ensures that you have enough energy for the day ahead, while also providing your body with the necessary nutrients to thrive. If you don’t have time to prepare a complicated breakfast each day, don’t worry, a protein shake or smoothie can do the trick.
- Stop avoiding going to the doctors. There are no valid excuses for avoiding going to the doctor when you need medical help. This is because doing so means that you could be getting sicker, as you’re prolonging the amount of time it will take to get treatment. As such, now is the perfect time to schedule that doctor’s or healthcare appointment, even if you are embarrassed about medical symptoms. Remember, they’ve seen a lot throughout their careers, so there is nothing to be embarrassed about.
- Hit 10,000 steps a day. Generally speaking, the more you’re able to exercise, the better. However, daily gym visits are not realistic for the majority of adults. As such, you should start by simply making sure that you hit your daily step target, which should sit somewhere between 8,000 and 10,000 steps. While this may seem like a lot, you’d be surprised at how quickly you can fit these steps into your routine, especially if you’re able to squeeze a quick walk into your lunch break.
- Drink more water. Drinking more water, around a litre a day, is a great way to improve your health, even if it may take you a little while to get used to it. For example, this can help with weight management, your energy levels, and can even improve digestion. One way in which you can make sure that you’re drinking enough water is by carrying a water bottle around with you or leaving one on your desk at work. This way, you’re more inclined to take sips throughout the day.
