8 Things You Can Do Everyday to Improve Your Mind and Body
8 Things You Can Do Everyday to Improve Your Mind & Body
Author Amanda Turner / Category Lifestyle / Published: June 2019
In a chaotic world filled with technology, the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, and stress from careers, it’s easy to forget how to take care of yourself. If you feel like you need to get back on track and focus on improving your mind and body, start with some of these simple things you can do every day to improve your overall well-being.
Go Outside!
Being around nature is great, but even more than that - just get outside! Some may not be able to go for hikes or to parks on a regular basis, but just being able to get some sunshine on your face and breathe fresh air during your break is more than enough to boost your mental and physical health.
Exercise
You may be busy but try to squeeze some type of exercise into your day, even if it is a few minutes. A great way to get your body moving is to take a walk during your lunch break. Instead of eating out, pack a lunch and take a walk. You get the double benefit of being able to get in a nice relaxing workout while also being outside and getting the Vitamin D from the sun and fresh air to clear your mind.
Spend Time With Loved Ones
Seeing your loved ones on a daily basis is great, but make sure you are present with them each day. Take time to engage with them, ask them about their day, play a game, and just enjoy their company. We often take for granted being surrounded by family in lieu of just trying to get dinner on the table and everyone to bed in a timely manner. Try and take a moment each day to appreciate the people you have in your life.
Practice Gratitude
Sometimes it can be hard to focus on what we already have when we are struggling to accomplish more each day. Try and mitigate that by taking time each day to practice gratitude. This can be as simple as reciting some affirmations each evening or take it a step further and create a gratitude journal and document what you are grateful for each day.
Challenge Yourself
Be it a large or small challenge, make your mind work a little each day. Many of us go on autopilot at work, but consider doing something different, or engage in a brain teaser to work your brain. Also, challenge yourself by getting things done. Not much feels better than a sense of accomplishment - and it doesn’t need to be restricted to the workplace either. Get some line items done around your home by checking for things that may need to get repaired, such as a noisy HVAC system or other faulty appliances.
Meditate
Meditation doesn’t always have to be a long-winded event that takes up an hour of your day. Try waking up each morning, sitting up in your bed, closing your eyes, and clearing your mind before you get moving. Just taking the time to find peace each day will make the world of difference.
Get Some Sleep
This may be a tough task for some, but it is also one of the most important. Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest factors of anxiety, depression, and can even lead to bigger health issues later like Alzheimer's disease. Discover ways to try and get a good night’s sleep every night, like turning off all electronics, keeping your room dark and cool, and clearing your head before you get in bed.
Be Optimistic
Did you know that more than 87% of our thoughts are negative? Try and keep your life and goals in perspective by focusing on the positives. Similar to practicing gratitude, keep in mind that “the grass isn’t always greener” when you latch on to negative feelings because of comparisons or stress from work - you may have it a lot better than you currently feel!
Amanda Turner is a freelance writer and recent graduate. She is taking time to explore her passions through writing.
