While there may be many variations on an exact definition, wellness is the state of being both physically and emotionally healthy. Wellness means moving toward a healthy weight, acting to correct medical issues, and addressing relationships and emotional concerns so that we interact in healthy ways.
Here are some important components for making 2016 a year of Wellness:
- Plan meals. By planning meals for the week there is less temptation to pick up fast food.
- Exercise. Incorporate moderate intensity physical activity into a healthy lifestyle. More movement means big results physically and emotionally.
- Eat Breakfast. This is the most important meal of the day. Most people who skip breakfast overcompensate at lunch or dinner.
- Hydrate with water. Water is a calorie-free beverage that is essential for proper cell function, aids digestion and flushes toxins out of our body.
- Write it down. Food logs help us become aware of how many calories are actually consumed in a typical day.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables. Eating more of these low-calorie, nutrient-packed foods can help crowd out other higher calorie foods.
- Seek help from a counselor for dealing with emotional concerns. While it can be difficult to face the challenges of relationships and emotions, the results can be fulfilling and rewarding. Dealing with our emotional concerns reap mental and physical benefits all the way around.
Always discuss medical concerns with your physician, and seek professionals to help with other goals, as well. The most successful process is to make small changes and let these changes develop into healthy habits so there is no need for “resolutions” in the years to come. Be well!