The Top 5 Healthy Habits You Should Build and Why 

Healthy habits improve your overall mood and mindset, which is why they are vital to a happy lifestyle. When you practice patterns that leave you feeling good, you will become more productive, optimistic, stronger, and balanced. Unfortunately, you may find some healthy habits more difficult to master than others. Don’t let this discourage you, however. Repetition is the key to forming new patterns. 

With all the mixed information and media, it is understandable if you are overwhelmed with where to start. But drop your shoulders and take a deep breath because I have created a list of the five most beneficial healthy habits that are achievable and guaranteed to improve your lifestyle. 

Eat Clean 

Unsurprisingly, a healthy diet is at the top of this list. A wholesome and nutritious diet has a mountain of benefits. It can help you meet your desired weight goals, create a healthy gut, and minimize brain fog, making you feel clear and alert throughout the day. 

A balanced diet full of vitamins and nutrients can also reduce your risk of illness, allowing you to have fewer disruptions in your daily life. 

Follow a Consistent Sleep Schedule 

 Sleep. This one is HUGE. You need to give your body the proper amount of rest in order for it to function correctly. It would be best if you tried to get into a steady bedtime routine and rise around the same time every day—yes, that means the weekends too. 

Our bodies do their most physical and emotional healing while we are asleep. So, if you deny your body the chance to catch up, you will become more stressed, tired, and less productive and focused throughout the day. 

Set a routine that works best for you, and stick to it! 

Drink Enough Water 

I know, I know. You have heard this advice many times before. But it really is a healthy habit that you should consider building. Staying hydrated helps your productivity, skin appearance, and energy levels and can even burn calories! The average person who drinks 8 cups (64 oz) of water daily will burn an extra 70 calories over those who don’t hydrate themselves efficiently. 

Pro tip: If plain drinking water is too boring, try incorporating flavored sparkling water into your hydration plan. Just make sure you don’t choose sparkling water that contains added sugars. 

Exercise Daily

Moving your body on a regular basis has a magnitude of both physical and mental benefits. Daily exercise strengthens muscles, helps control weight, and improves sleep quality. Even just a daily walk will leave you feeling empowered, which will help you tackle your daily chores. 

Another reason to incorporate exercise into your daily life is that it reduces PMS symptoms. Although it may be the last thing on your mind, moving your body will minimize cramping, increase your energy levels, and improve your mood. 

Take on Reading as a Hobby 

Suppose you are looking for a habit that will counteract the stress from your career, obligations, or fiscal responsibility. In that case, reading could be the one for you. Settling in with an enjoyable book is a healthy form of escapism. Reading can throw you into a new world where you can temporarily separate yourself from reality. 

Reading also plays a massive role in our cognitive function. Those who read more tend to have higher IQs, larger imaginations, and better problem-solving skills. The mental stimulation that comes with habitual reading could reduce your risk for mental disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia later down the road. 

Although reading sounds like an easy habit to build, many non-readers find it challenging to begin their journey. This is because, in our current day and age, we are used to sitting in front of the mind-numbing tv and not having to focus for an extended period. There is nothing wrong with television in moderation, but you should also participate in brain-strengthening activities. I am here to tell you that reading doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You should consider starting with light books and gradually working your way up to longer reads. 

I recommend beginning your reading excursion with my brand new book, The Little Book of Rest. My book advises 100+ ways to relax and restore your mind, body, and soul. This easy read is both informative and engaging, making it the PERFECT start to building reading as a habit you regularly partake in.