Your Health is a Journey
Health is not a destination; it is a journey where one must take small but consistent steps. Your health begins with a positive and disciplined state of mind. When we combine positivity and discipline, we open the door to making the right choices. When we make the right choices, they become habits. Finally, our habits become our reality and we repeat these healthy patterns.
At SOMA Wellness, we care about providing valuable information. We believe that taking care of yourself does not have to feel like a chore. So, here are 5 ways to improve your physical and mental health. These are the foundations for making great change in all areas of your wellbeing. Since when we take care of and nourish our bodies, we can live each day with a healthy mind too.
Nutrition
Healthy eating is not so much about cutting out foods and dieting. It is about having a balanced diet. A balanced diet is eating a wide variety of foods in the right amount. This is so that you can fuel your body with the best possible nutrition.
Gut health is dependent on the food that we consume. It is better to reduce your sugar intake and increase your vegetable intake. Those who are spending a long time in the gym or in training will generally need to increase protein too. Protein is beneficial for muscle recovery.
Supplements
Here are some of the best supplements for men and women that health experts recommend:
Fish Oil
Many of us do not get enough of long-chain omega 3 fats. There is solid evidence to show that omega 3 reduces inflammation within the body. Fish oil is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. This includes eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Probiotics
Probiotics are ‘good’ bacteria that line our digestive tracts. They support our body’s ability to absorb nutrients and fight against infection. Probiotics are particularly good for gut health. When you have taken a course of antibiotics, it is important to use probiotics too.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a great supplement to aid restful sleep and reduce stress when taken in the evening. It is a nutrient that plays a role in hundreds of enzymatic reactions. This includes:
- Metabolising food
- Synthesis of fatty acids and proteins
- Transmission of nerve impulses
Exercise
Research states that 30 minutes of exercise a day is enough to maintain a healthy body and mind. Whether it is walking to work or hitting the gym, anything is better than nothing. But when it comes to training the body it is also important to mix things up every so often. Not only will this work a range of muscles, but it will also keep your mind motivated too.
Sleep
Health experts recommend 7 hours of sleep per night. The key to improving wellbeing is not so much about having more than the recommendation. It is more about the quality of sleep. Our bodies have their own internal clock, so it is vital to have a routine and stick to it. Having routine creates better productivity during the day and quality rest at night. Ensuring that you follow your routine and get a quality amount of sleep will also help to improve mood and balance emotions.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing awareness on the present moment. During the present moment, the person can acknowledge and accept everything around them. Their thoughts, feelings and emotional body sensations. Practising mindfulness each day will improve both physical and mental wellbeing. Mindful breathing techniques are the best way to integrate a healthy and balanced body and mind.
