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Ten Simple Things You Can Do This Year to Improve Your Health

 

You may have already made some resolutions to live a healthier life this year. And you may have already abandoned some of them because they cramp your way of life. With that in mind, we thought we’d share some tips to create a healthier you that are actually easy to do – you may find you actually enjoy doing them!

Go outside

It’s a big, beautiful world out there, just waiting for you to appreciate it. Getting up off the couch and going outside has all sorts of benefits. It makes exercise feel easier, so you’ll be inclined to do more. It can increase creativity, reduce stress, and may even help us age more gracefully. Those who get out of the house more often have significantly fewer complaints regarding pain, sleep problems, and a decline in the ability to perform activities of daily living.

Drink more water

You’ve heard it a million times – that’s because it’s that important. Proper hydration is essential to maintain every system in your body. Fluids carry nutrients to your cells, help eliminate waste, and keep you looking younger. If you want a little variety, add some fruit juice to your water.

Get a puppy

Studies have shown that pet owners are healthier than those who live without pets – they provide companionship, unconditional love, and a quick pick-me-up after a hard day. The also provide an opportunity play, walk and get off the couch.

Take a nap

Studies have shown the sleep – even in the form of a quick nap – helps us do everything from maintaining a healthy weight to improving our memory to spurring our creativity. It may even help us live longer.

Laugh

It may turn out that laughter really is the best medicine. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter reduces stress, strengthens the immune system and improves your mood. It’s also good for the heart and the brain.

Socialize

Who doesn’t enjoy spending time with a good friend over a cup of coffee or dinner? A study from the Rush University Memory and Aging Project concluded that a higher level of social engagement in old age is associated with better cognitive function.

Have a glass of wine

In moderation, red wine has been shown to improve heart health. Red wine is high in antioxidants, raises HDL cholesterol (that’s the good cholesterol), reduces the formation of blood clots, and, according to the Mayo Clinic, may help prevent coronary heart disease.

Meditate

Spending a few moments each day in silence and focusing on your breath can reduce stress, enhance rehabilitation, and improve brain health.

 Take off your shoes

Taking off your shoes before entering your home helps prevent the spread of bacteria that your sneakers, high heels and wingtips have gathered throughout the day.

 Buy a plant for the living room

Plants help purify indoor air – spider plants, which are one of the easiest houseplants to grow, reduce formaldehyde. Dracaena comes in 40 different varieties and removes benzene and xylene. As a bonus, plants add beauty to almost any space in your home.