8 Things You Can Do Today to Improve Your Well-being
It doesn’t take much to make an impact on your overall health and well-being. More often than not, even the seemingly small things count. Here are 8 things you can start doing today for a healthier and happier life:
1. Eat a healthy breakfast
How you start your day often sets the tone for the rest of your day. One way to set yourself up for success is by eating a healthy breakfast. Some great-tasting yet easy-to-make recipes are oatmeal with egg; nut butter, banana, and chia seed toast; and avocado toast with egg.
2. Elevate your diet
An easy way to improve your diet is by adding a serving or two of vegetables and fruits with every meal. This ensures that you get the proper nutrients that your body needs. You can also look into superfoods that help promote healthy and resilient skin—a must for prosthetic-wearers whose skin goes through a lot of friction and stress.
Consider also cutting down on sugary treats or drinks. Doing so will keep your brain sharp, clear your skin, and reduce the chances of gaining so much weight.
3. Stretching before going to bed
Tight hips seem to be a common problem for almost everybody—from the deskbound office workers to dancers. Incorporating a simple hip-stretching routine before going to bed relieves discomfort and prepares you for a relaxing, deep sleep. If you’re a lower extremity amputee, stretches that target the hip flexors will immensely help.
4. Start a skincare regimen
No matter your age, a skincare routine is beneficial for your skin health. But apart from the usual lotions and potions that ensure healthy and beautiful skin all over, prosthetic-wearers need to pay special attention to the skin on the residual limb.
Some products to consider include the following: prosthetic cleanser or wipe that will remove dirt, sweat, and oils without stripping the skin of its natural moisture; prosthetic moisturizer that will keep skin from drying and cracking out; prosthetic antiperspirant that reduces and prevents perspiration (and bacteria) from building up in your socket; and targeted treatments, such as anti-chafing products, that treat irritated skin and ensure comfortable prosthetic use.
5. Stick to a workout program
Exercising for at least 30 minutes, 6 times a week has great benefits that go beyond weight loss or weight maintenance. The benefits include improved focus and memory, increased energy, and strong muscles and bones. You can choose to work out with a trainer or you can create your own exercise program. Just make sure that you have a healthy mix of cardio and strength training exercises. And don’t forget to block a rest day to allow your muscles to heal and restore.
6. Develop meaningful connections
Life is more meaningful when it’s shared with others. So, rekindle or strengthen the relationships that matter to you. If you’re in a new town or city, consider joining a support group or hobby- and sports-oriented groups. These connections don’t have to be “perfect”; what matters is the renewed or deeper sense of meaning that these relationships bring.
7. Give yourself a bedtime
Sleep is one of the most overlooked activities that have a great impact on your health. To make sure that you get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep, set a bedtime and stick to it. Your health and energy will thank you for it.
8. Practice gratitude
The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. Countless studies have shown that counting your blessings every day trains your mind to focus on the positive, which is strongly related to better health.
