People have varying reasons why they fail to live a healthy lifestyle. One of the common ones is their busy schedule. When you barely have enough time to rest, sleep, and spend quality time with your loved ones, it becomes trickier to live a healthy life. But in reality, one can have all the excuses in the world to make their point. As they always say, one can find a way to accomplish something once they put their minds to it.
The great thing about living a healthier life is that even small, consistent changes can lead to life-changing results. All it takes is to decide to want a healthy change. This, along with your willingness to be consistent in your new routines, can make a big difference in your health.
Are you in need of simple ways you can embrace a healthy lifestyle? Here are some strategies you can try that require minimal effort.
Switch To A Better Plate
It can be hard to make yourself stop eating all those tasty meals served at home and your parent’s house during the holidays. But did you know that the bigger your plate is, the more you are likely to eat larger portions each time? Studies show that the size of serving plates can impact how much we consume.
We tend to eat on large-sized plates whenever we are hungry. But using the illusion of a smaller plate can trick our brain into eating and feeling satisfied withfewerportions. Note that the color of your plate also matters.
One weight loss tip some experts swear by is red or blue plates when eating unhealthy food items. We often associate the red color with danger, while blue can be an appetite suppressant for the brain. The next time you find yourself about to snack on unhealthy treats, especially carbs or sweets, go for a red or blue plate.
Indulge In A Relaxing Hobby
Finding time to relax and indulge in hobbies you honestly enjoy is a must to live healthily. Better peace of mind and the ability to do the things you like doing is good for both your physical and mental health.
We all have different definitions when it comes to activities that relax us. Some find peace in activities that require repetitive movements. Others feel more relaxed after burning off calories and letting their frustrations out in the form of strenuous physical activities.
If you’re the type who likes to keep to yourself and loves to relax while sitting in a comfy chair, you can try hobbies like stitching, crocheting, or quilting. You can choose to order your quilts and fabrics from online stores and have your materials delivered right on your doorsteps. This way, you can start quilting away during your free time.
If you prefer relaxing with adventure activities, then you will need to find time to commit. This can be in the form of mountain biking, river rafting, or hiking. Finding yourself an adventure buddy or joining groups with the same interests will inspire you to take some time out of your busy schedule to pursue your interests.
Exercise Whenever You Can
Many people are unhealthy because they fail to exercise each day. Some people would rather eat out than have home-cooked meals, take their car instead of walk to run errands, or even take the elevator instead of the stairs. We make simple choices each day that often constitutes a lazier lifestyle.
Making small changes in how you do things could mean additional steps, more calories burned, and more muscles exercised each day. So, as much as possible, choose to be active. Squeeze in exercise as often as you can.
For instance, you can do yoga even before you get out of bed. Choose to walk or bike when running errands instead of taking your own vehicle or public transport. Instead of eating right on your desk, use half of your break time to hit the gym, run errands, or talk to your coworkers and take your lunch later.
Move vigorously as you do your household chores. Take your dog out regularly for a walk or call a loved one to take regular walks to the park with you. Use your stationary time to flex and stretch your tired, achy muscles and switch your happy hour for something fun and active.
Sometimes, all it takes is your willingness to take some time out of your busy schedule to start a healthier life. Invest time to pursue a relaxing hobby and mind your eating habits. Change your plates if you must. Also, squeeze in as much exercise as you can in your busy everyday life, and you can start being more active than before. Only when you stop making excuses and start changing for the better will you be able to live a healthier life.