5 everyday choices with long term health benefits

Everything we do in life is dictated by our choices, and our health is no different. Making the choice to do certain things in your daily routine can have a strong impact on your health down the road. These healthy habit may be a bit challenging to at times, but the more you incorporate them the easier they become, and eventually it’s just second nature.

1. Drink a large glass of water first thing in the morning

   • I always either have a large water jug or a glass of water by my bed so that as soon as my eyes open I can down the water. The first thing I notice when I do this is my body starts waking up. It’s easier to open my eyes and get myself out of bed. Drinking water in the morning will increase your overall water intake improving your hydration levels which increases energy levels, boosts metabolism, improves skin complexion, and improves your overall well-being!

2. Expose yourself to natural light

   • This helps your body produce vitamin D which is vital for calcium absorption and bone health. Natural light also helps your bodies circadian rhythm and overall sleep health which leads to improved focus and energy. Not to mention it makes us happier!

3. Eat more whole foods

   • This is not meant to be restrictive! This just means making a conscious effort to include a greater percentage of whole foods versus processed foods into your diet. Something as simple as picking your own store bought rotisserie chicken instead of buying the pre-packaged shredded chicken. Or choosing whole fruit over a bottles smoothie. Ultimately whole foods give you a better chance at a balanced diet regarding both your macronutrients and micronutrients.

4. Take the stairs

   • When you have the option to take an escalator, elevator or the stairs…choose the stairs when reasonable. Exercise is cumulative! A couple extra flights of stairs a day can increase your daily calorie burn, increase the muscle strength in your legs, and improve your cardiovascular health. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra movement without adding any extra time! (And often the stairs can actually be faster!)

5. Stretch!

   • Mobility is a crucial part of maintaining a healthy body while aging. This doesn’t have to be something as intense as a yoga class unless that’s your thing! It can simply be using the space in your living room to go through a series of stretches before you go to bed, or first thing in the morning. Our bodies are designed to move and often times stretching gets the short end of that stick. Stretching can help prevent injuries, reduce aches and pains, and improve physical performance.

These are 5 things that are fairly easy to add into your daily routine that can have a major impact on your health in the long run. One of the keys to living a fit and healthy lifestyle is consistency and, you will feel the difference after a couple weeks of consciously putting effort into these 5 things. Eventually you will form habits and you future self will thank you.