As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to true value of leading a quality, healthy lifestyle. In your teens and 20s you can get away with a lot more. (Even though you probably shouldn’t). Once 30 comes around, if you’re not already, it’s time to start improving your health and prioritizing longevity and healthspan. Living long isn’t very appealing if those years are filled with illness or discomfort. That’s why I’ve been committed to being as healthy as possible, and sharing my learnings (and even mistakes) along the way.
Related: The perfect day for brain and body performance
Good Sleep Is Critical
Firstly, the importance of sleep cannot be overstated. It’s like a reset button for the body, and without it, we’re operating at a fraction of our potential. Since recognizing this, I’ve prioritized quality rest, and the results have been nothing short of transformative. My mind is sharper, my mood is more stable, and my energy levels have soared. Making simple changes like maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a restful environment in my bedroom have been game-changers. Read also: 10 ways to get better sleep at night
Regular Exercise Is a Non-Brainer
No health improvement plan would be complete without mentioning physical exercise. It’s not just about maintaining a desirable physique—it’s about boosting your mood, improving your energy levels, and reducing your risk of chronic diseases. Exercise is non-negotiable for me. I’ve been doing it since I’ve been 15 and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Need a workout plan? Here’s 35+ free workout plans for different goals and ability levels
Mindful Eating Prevents Overeating
I do my best to embrace mindful eating. I think it’s important to take time to enjoy a meal and every bite. I struggled at times with gastrointestinal distress from eating too quickly, and believe it or not, at times eat too much. Read also: 6 steps to starting a new diet that works for you
Hydration Is Like Human Engine Oil
Staying hydrated is another aspect that I’ve seen a significant positive impact from. As I’ve said, I’ve experienced digestive issues and muscle cramps as I got older, and increasing my water intake noticeably alleviated these problems. Now, I aim to exceed the recommended eight glasses a day—it’s a small commitment for a significant return.
Emotional Health Is a Foundation for Physical Health
Self-awareness is crucial. I routinely check in with myself to be very aware of my emotional state. I’ve found that recognizing when my mood starts to dip allows me to intervene and shift my mindset. Rather than succumbing to negative thoughts, I actively seek to turn them around. Read: 10 habits to avoid a negativity spiral and my attitude readjustment project
Breathwork Is Just Like Meditation
Implementing a regular breathwork practice has been another invaluable addition to my routine. It’s incredible how simply controlled breathing impacts our stress levels and overall mental well-being. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on my breath has helped me manage racing thoughts and cultivate a sense of calm. I’ve mentioned before that I’m a fan of apnea training. Read: What is breathwork and how to do it
Volunteering Spreads Good Energy
I’ve got to say, I’ve been very fortunate in my life. I know I could always be doing more, but I do my best to atleast do some sort of volunteering. Right now I do an hour per week. Not only does this contribute to the community but it also boosts my own mood and emotional health. It’s a win-win that I recommend to everyone.
Sun Protection Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
When I was a kid, we rarely wore sunscreen. That was not a good idea. Nowadays I’m always making sure my face is covered when I’m going to be outside for a while. It’s a no-brainer, really, but one that gets overlooked all too often.
Alcohol Elimination Makes a Huge Difference
I largely gave up all alcohol at 28, with the occasional beer here and there as an exception. In retrospect, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my health. Alcohol, for the most part, is just poison we’ve been socially conditioned to enjoy. I know that’s an unpopular opinion, but it’s one I believe to be very true.
Regular Check-ups Keep Me Ahead of Issues
Lastly, regular medical checkups play a crucial role in preventive health care. Early detection is often key in managing potential health issues, and regular checkups facilitate that. Right now I do my bloodwork atleast every quarter. I keep an eye on my blood glucose levels (a1c below 5.5) in particular. I also may continue getting yearly or bi-yearly scans of my entire body. For more on that story, read it here.
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