What does it take to energize yourself when you are feeling exhausted and unable to function?
This blog is all about increasing your energy , improving your mental clarity and getting stronger. I will be sharing strategies to promote a healthier lifestyle. The foods that we eat have a lot to do with how we feel, the carbohydrates, sugar, and white flour can weigh you down. Many diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune, arthritis, and eczema stem from the foods we eat.
It is so important that we pay attention to the symptoms as we eat a variety of foods and eliminate problem foods. It’s important that you start today making the necessary changes to build a stronger more vibrant life. You may be wondering how do I get started? The first step is to acknowledge that there is a problem, here is a few tips to get started.
A Healthy Way Of Life
Understand The Need For Balanced Nutrition
Here I am at 60 years old looking at my health profile saying I have work to do in order to live in optimal health. I want to be able to get up, workout, stretch and feel strong in my 70’s and 80’s without limits. Looking back on all the mistakes I made early on, I know that it is possible to course correct and build a stronger, more flexible body.
I started out at 17 years old having my first child, that’s when I started seeing the weight gain. Having 2 children by 18 years old dealing with the stress of being a young mother, not really hearing much about balancing meals, or being taught what a healthy meal looked like I spent most of my younger years eating junk food. The weight began to pile on and I saw myself in my 20’s over 200 pounds.
2. Avoid Food With No Nutritional Value
Indulging in unhealthy foods without realizing the long-term impact on your health can be dangerous. I wish I had understood the significance of balanced nutrition and the role it plays in my overall well-being. Eating a well rounded diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats will have you on the road to success in your health. Avoid excessive sugars, processed foods and junk foods as they can lead to energy crashes.
Looking back It wasn’t until I started nursing school that I learned about the importance of nutrition and wellness, then I was so focused on getting the Mom thing right that I didn’t pay much attention to my health. It was not until the age of 33 years old did I realize that I needed to make some changes when I was put on a diuretic for my blood pressure. Being put on medication was my wake up call, I realized then the importance of having yearly physicals, lab work, and vital sign monitoring.
3. Regular Exercise For Physical And Mental Well-being
Physical activity goes beyond just maintaining a fit physique. I wish I had known that regular exercise not only keeps you physically healthy but also has tremendous benefits for mental well-being. As you get older regular exercise can also improve your A1C and cholesterol. Engaging in activities that you enjoy and finding a workout routine that suits your lifestyle can enhance your energy levels, boost mood, improve your lab work and reduce stress.
4. The Power of Sleep
In my younger years, I often sacrificed sleep to accommodate a busy schedule or just late-night binge watching T.V. However, I've come to realize that a good night's sleep is crucial to overall health. Prioritizing quality sleep improves cognitive function, supports the immune system, and helps regulate mood. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can work wonders, making you feel more vibrant, alert and positive. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue and negatively affect your overall health. It is important that you create an atmosphere for sleep, removing all distractions that might keep you awake such as cell phones and other electronics. Exposure to blue light before bedtime can disrupt our sleep pattern as it affects when our bodies create melatonin. Avoid looking at screens 2-3 hours before bed.
5. Create An Atmosphere Of Peace
Value Your Mental Health
Taking care of your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, seeking support when needed, and practicing self-care are all vital aspects of maintaining a healthy mind. Practicing gratitude daily and focusing on positivity daily will also improve and enhance your well-being. Prioritizing mental health allows you to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.
6. Build Healthy Relationships
In my younger years, I didn't fully appreciate the impact of relationships on my overall well-being. Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive individuals can significantly contribute to a healthy and fulfilling life. Cultivating healthy relationships, setting boundaries, and prioritizing open communication are key components of maintaining emotional well-being.
7. Hydrate Yourself
It is important to hydrate yourself, drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration which can cause fatigue. The recommended daily water intake varies depending on factors such as your age, sex, activity and climate but aiming for 8 glasses(64 ounces) is a good starting point. By focusing on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, mental health, and building healthy relationships, and hydration we can pave the way to a more fulfilling and vibrant future. I also understand the responsibility to pass information to my family by being an example in the foods that I eat, incorporating healthy recipes at family gatherings and bringing awareness to anyone connected to me.
Remember, it's never too late to make positive changes. Start prioritizing your well-being today, focus on having more energy and enjoy the journey towards a healthier and happier life!
