By Arpan Khehra • 09 October, 2024
5 Easy Steps to Create a Healthy Lifestyle
Achieving a healthier lifestyle doesn't always require drastic measures. In fact, small changes can make a big difference over time. Whether you're looking to boost your energy levels, improve your overall well-being, or simply feel better day-to-day, incorporating these five easy steps into your routine can set you on the path to success.
Increase Your Hang Time
Why It Matters:
Our modern lifestyle often limits the full range of motion our shoulders are capable of. Spending time hanging allows your shoulders to stretch and relax, improving flexibility and circulation. This simple practice can also enhance lung capacity by allowing your chest to expand fully.
How to Do It:
Find a sturdy bar or use a tree branch or doorjamb. Start by supporting some of your body weight with your feet on the ground, gradually easing into fully hanging. Aim to hold this position for a few seconds initially, gradually increasing the duration as your strength and comfort level improve.
Benefits: Shoulder mobility, lung capacity, circulation boost, stress relief.
Cut the Noise for Inner Peace
Why It Matters:
Constant exposure to noise, whether from traffic, electronic devices, or office chatter, can significantly impact your stress levels and overall well-being. Lowering the noise levels in your environment can lead to improved focus, reduced stress, and better sleep quality.
How to Do It:
Invest in noise-canceling headphones to create a quieter space when listening to music or working in a noisy environment. Turn off background devices like TVs when not in use. Consider using earplugs and an eye mask at night to minimize disturbances and promote deeper sleep.
Benefits: Stress reduction, enhanced productivity, better sleep quality, mental clarity.
Brew Your Own Bone Broth
Why It Matters:
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid known for its numerous health benefits, including supporting joint health, improving skin elasticity, and promoting hair growth. It's rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that are easily absorbed by the body.
How to Do It:
Save the bones from roasted chicken or beef. Place them in a pot or slow cooker with water, vinegar or lemon juice, peppercorns, and vegetables like onions and carrots. Simmer on low heat for several hours to extract all the nutrients. Strain the broth and use it as a base for soups, stews, or simply drink it for a nutritious boost.
Benefits: Joint health, skin and hair benefits, nutrient absorption, immune support.
Go Squat Crazy
Why It Matters:
Squatting isn't just for the gym—it's a natural human movement that strengthens your legs, improves balance, and supports core and pelvic floor muscles. Incorporating squats into daily activities can help maintain mobility and functional strength as you age.
How to Do It:
Make squatting part of your everyday routine. Organize your kitchen shelves so that frequently used items are at squatting level. Perform household chores like folding laundry or picking up items from the floor while squatting. Gradually increase the depth and frequency of your squats to challenge your muscles and improve flexibility.
Benefits: Leg strength, balance improvement, core stability, pelvic floor health.
Embrace Fermented Foods
Why It Matters:
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support digestive health and strengthen the immune system. These foods are also easier to digest and often contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals compared to their unfermented counterparts.
How to Do It:
Incorporate fermented foods into your daily diet. Start your day with a serving of yogurt or kefir, which are packed with probiotics. Include fermented vegetables like sauerkraut or kimchi as a side dish with lunch or dinner. Experiment with kombucha, a fermented tea, as a refreshing beverage option.
Benefits: Gut health, immune support, nutrient absorption, digestive wellness.