2 min read
If you take an honest assessment of your overall health and come to find that it’s not as good as it could be, you’re selling yourself short. We all want to be healthy, but many of us think it’s out of reach. However, boosting your physical, mental, and emotional health is a practical goal if you’re willing to tweak a few things in your lifestyle. Here are six simple strategies to consider that can help you feel better and improve your overall quality of life.
Keep tabs on your healthcare, particularly if you’re in your golden years. Insurance plans are always changing, and it’s essential that you’re getting the coverage you need each year. For seniors with Medicare Part A or Part B, you’ve probably realized that there are significant out-of-pocket costs. Consider enrolling in a Medigap plan, such as Plan F or Plan G, to help lighten these costs. Research the differences between these plans to choose the right one for you; for example, unlike Medigap Plan G, Plan F pays for the Medicare Part B deductible.
It’s also important to schedule regular checkups with your doctor. An annual physical exam can help you stay in front of your health and any potential problems, as can a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Also, be sure to go in for an eye exam once a year. There are many conditions — such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes of the eyes — that can severely impact your vision. Moreover, eye exams can alert you of other health issues, from diabetes to high cholesterol to high blood pressure.
Drinking lots of water comes with countless benefits. For example, it can strengthen the immune system, regulate the digestive system, improve cognitive function, prevent headaches, and increase energy levels. Also, it can lead to visibly healthier skin. Though needs vary with the individual, the 8x8 rule (eight 8-oz glasses of water per day) generally serves as a solid goal.
In many cases, the air in our homes is more polluted than the air outside. That’s a scary thought, isn’t it? Make sure you’re setting you and your loved ones up for good respiratory health by keeping the air in your home clean; this is especially important for those with asthma or allergies. Here are a few things you can do to improve indoor air quality.
Estimates suggest that one billion people worldwide are not getting enough vitamin D. In most cases, vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency is due to a lack of sunlight exposure. Vitamin D plays a critical role in staving off numerous diseases found in virtually every part of the body, so be sure to get yours by spending at least 15 minutes a day in the sunshine.
Finally, try to engage regularly in activities that foster your mental and emotional health. For instance, pick up a hobby that brings you joy, make some time for relaxation, be sure to get plenty of sleep, and find an exercise routine that you can do five times a week. Also, consider mindful meditation for de-stressing.
Living healthy is not out of reach; it just requires you to make simple decisions in everyday life. Remember to revisit your health insurance coverage, go to regular checkups, and drink a lot of water throughout the day. Take steps to improve the air quality in your home, spend some time in the sunshine, and find activities that boost your mental and emotional health. Before too long, these strategies will become habits, and better health will become like second nature!
Photo Credit: Burst
Written by guest blogger Holli Richardson of hollistics.net
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