The mere thought of becoming healthy and then maintaining that lifestyle is enough to send anyone into a spiral when their respective plate is already full. Moving towards a healthier you does not have to be difficult. Start small, add new changes over time, and stay the course. As time passes you will feel better about yourself and the efforts you have made toward your goals. Keep reading for some healthy ideas to implement into your life.

Quit Smoking

Smoking cessation is one of the most daunting health challenges for many people who smoke. If you are a current smoker or know of someone who is and are ready to quit smoking, then right now is the best time to start the process.  

When you choose to quit smoking, you will reap the benefits of a healthier and happier body. Other positives come in the form of whiter teeth, a fresher scent, more expendable income (when not spent on cigarettes), increased lung capacity, and a healthier body overall.

Exercise Your Body

Starting a routine physical fitness regimen and sticking to it are great ways to achieve your optimal health. In addition, exercise is proven to help your brain acuity. When your body is active and fit, you are less likely to injure it as you will be stronger than before.

Exercise Your Mind

As people age, their brains lose some function. It can become frustrating when memory recall is slower than it once was. While you must see your healthcare provider if you or a loved one is concerned about your memory loss, know that some amount of forgetfulness occurs throughout the aging process. 

To help stave off memory loss, activities like exercise, puzzles, and brain games will be useful to keep your mind sharp. Watch this video for five low-intensity brain exercises to try to improve your memory and concentration.

Eat Well

What you put into your body is as important as what you do with your body. Eating foods that are minimally processed, full of heart-healthy fats, and contain the recommended daily allowances for each of the food groups should be your goal each day.

As it can take time and effort to eat healthily, plan your grocery list, recipes, and meal prep. Enter them into your calendar as appointments you need to do so you do not put them off and end up going to a drive-thru.

Make Your Medical Appointments

A major part of improving and maintaining your overall health is going to the doctor. You need to ensure you make and keep your medical appointments annually or as recommended. Your healthcare providers will ensure you are in good health and screen you for preventative testing needs. Here are some essential appointments to make.

• Dental Exam

• Eye Exam

• Well Check

• Mental Health Screening

• Hearing Test

• Women’s Annual Exams

• Dermatologist Check

Take a look at your health and your life. Review any areas you wish to improve and then take action. Partner up with someone or include your whole family in working to improve everyone’s health one step at a time. Have fun with the process and reap the rewards.