When January rolls around, many people make goals to better their wellness in the upcoming year, but fewer are able to keep these goals in the following months. , But it can be tough to achieve peace and wellness between balancing full-time work life, social circle, family life, and of course, time for your personal interests.
But all is not lost! The year is barely 1/4th of the way through, leaving tons of time to regain your sense of wellness. It may not be easy, but even small steps like eating healthier and indulging in the occasional massage can help improve your daily life.
Here are four life hacks for improving your wellness for the rest of 2022
Make Time for Massages
While we may consider taking time for a massage a luxury, in reality, massage is not only a therapeutic experience but incredibly beneficial to your physical health. Research has shown that going for a regular massage every few weeks can help treat back pain, neck pain, stiff joints, stress, insomnia, blood pressure, and exhaustion.
Depending on where you live, your insurance may cover a massage. For example, if you are seeking a massage therapist in Vancouver, you are likely to be at least partially covered by MSP.
Balanced Diet
We know that having a healthy balanced diet is important to your overall health, but eating well can actually improve your mental health as well. Eating foods high in protein, such as fish, beef, poultry, beans, eggs, and more, has all been linked to helping produce higher levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help boost your concentration and mood motivation.
Experts also suggest that complex carbohydrates, such as those found in sweet potato, quinoa, and oats, can all help to increase serotonin. This chemical can act as a mood stabilizer and increase happiness.\
With the above information in mind, the ideal balanced diet for your personal wellness is one that combines lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and colorful produce.
Working Out Really Works!
Like having a balanced diet, everybody knows that exercise is “good for you,” but it isn’t just for your physical health! Experts have proven that those who exercise on a regular basis have improved mental health levels and stronger emotional wellbeing.
When you exercise, chemicals like serotonin and endorphins rise, and stress-related hormones lower. Even exercising 2-3 times a week, for 1-2.5 hours, can help improve your emotional wellbeing. Even a simple daily walk can help improve your mood!
Replace Caffeine With Water
Sometimes that morning cup of coffee is all that gets us out of bed in the morning and gets our day going. But consuming coffee or any high-caffeine products in excess can actually have the opposite effects than we desire.
Overconsumption of caffeine can cause restlessness, nervousness, upset stomach, nausea, as well as elevated heart rate and increased breathing levels. These conditions can all interfere with your day, whether it is a workday or meant to be a day of rest. Furthermore, caffeine can also cause insomnia, setting you up for another tiring day the following morning.
Instead of consuming coffee, energy drinks, or caffeinated sodas, water is the ideal beverage for keeping your wellness up. Consuming appropriate amounts of water throughout the day can help keep you focused, energized, and at reduced stress levels.
