The seven components of a healthy lifestyle cover all aspects of life, including your mental, physical and emotional health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps prevent such chronic illnesses as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. It also improves your overall quality of life by helping you maintain a healthy weight, as well as physical strength and flexibility, and a positive outlook on life. The key to keeping a healthy lifestyle lies in understanding the components that contribute to said lifestyle.
Step 1
Get enough sleep. The National Institutes of Health recommends at least eight hours, but sleep needs vary by individual. To discover how much sleep you need, choose a night when you'll be able to sleep without setting an alarm. Go to bed at your normal time and make note of the time you wake up. Consult your physician if you have trouble getting to sleep, or staying asleep.
Step 2
Follow a healthy diet. Eat a variety of foods with an emphasis on whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean protein, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat at regular intervals throughout the day and incorporate at least one fruit or vegetable into each meal. Eat while sitting at a table and with minimal distractions, such as television, whenever possible. Consult MyPyramid.gov for the correct portion sizes and calories for your height, weight, age and activity levels.
Step 3
Exercise most days of the week. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise five days a week and strength training exercises two days a week. Take an aerobic or weight lifting class or go for a walk after your evening meal.
Step 4
Practice proper hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating, while preparing food, and after using the bathroom or handling animals. Bathe regularly, wear clean clothes and underwear, and keep your home environment clean. Schedule regular physical exams and health screening tests.
Step 5
Pay attention to safety. Wear your seatbelt. Avoid texting or talking on the phone while driving. Look both ways before crossing the street and be aware of safety exits in public places.
Step 6
Achieve work-life balance. Take time out of each day to relax with such activities as reading or writing in your journal. Spend time with friends outside of work. Avoid taking work home with you whenever possible. Find activities you enjoy and that enrich your life.
Step 7
Encourage a healthy home environment. This requires more than just a clean house. It also includes your relationship with others within your home and structural issues, such as ventilation. If you live with other people, foster healthy relationships with those people or take steps to sever unhealthy relationships. Check your windows to ensure they all open and provide adequate air flow. Keep plants to improve the air quality. Avoid smoking indoors.
www.livestrong.com
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