1. Boost Your Immunity
We all know the importance of a healthy diet, especially during flu season. But a well-functioning immune system requires more than just healthful foods.
It also needs enough sleep and reduced stress. Sleep can boost immunity, and learning techniques to manage stress helps the body maintain its homeostasis.
Foods that are known to support the immune system include berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, oranges and bell peppers. They are rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and zinc.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
The health of your body and mind have a direct relationship to the foods you eat. A healthy diet can help you live a longer, healthier life.
Eating a healthy diet doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s also important to avoid eating too much sodium and added sugar.
Whenever possible, choose whole foods and limit processed and fast food. Try to display healthy foods in a prominent place in your kitchen. This will help you remember to eat them more often.
3. Get Enough Sleep
One of the most important things you can do to live a longer, healthier life is getting enough sleep. If you have trouble waking up in the morning, feel like you don’t have energy during the day, or go to bed earlier on weekends than on weekdays, it could be a sign that you aren’t sleeping enough. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to improve your sleep. Try writing a to-do list before bed or taking a short walk before you get in the bedroom.
5. Stay Away From Alcohol
Alcohol suppresses the immune system, making you vulnerable to infectious diseases. Heavy drinking can also cause liver, kidney, and heart damage. In addition, alcoholic beverages are high in calories and sugar, which can lead to weight gain and digestive problems. So, if you want to improve your health, consider cutting out alcoholic drinks altogether. You’ll be surprised how much better you feel without the hangovers.
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7. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep is an important part of taking care of your body. While the occasional restless night won’t hurt you, regular lack of sleep can lead to many health problems, including coronary heart disease, obesity and diabetes. To improve your sleeping habits, try to exercise regularly, avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and use relaxing techniques like meditation and deep breathing. Michigan State University Extension offers a series called the SLEEP Program that provides guidelines for healthy sleeping habits.
8. Take a Bath
Taking a bath is more than just an alternative to showering—it’s a luxury that can help you live a longer, a healthy life. Baths are a great way to relax before bed and create a mood-boosting effect on the mind. Try adding relaxing scents and music to your bathing routine to create a true bath sanctuary for yourself or a loved one who needs some downtime. Bathing also has the added benefit of warming up your core temperature, helping you fall asleep and sleep better.
