You may have been thinking about changing your health habits for a while now. One or two indicators in your life may have popped up, or perhaps you’ve just been inspired watching others kick their health into gear. But you still haven’t done it, for whatever reason. After all, you figure, you’ve got time. So, if you’re wondering what the clear signs are that you might need to get started on a new health journey, here are a few indicators that it’s time.
1. Your Sleep Is Off
Sleep in America is treated far too often as an afterthought. You’ve likely heard the expression, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” Americans have built a reputation for being hardworking and tireless in the hustle, and many still stand proudly on that foundation. Unfortunately, poor sleep can lead to various health problems, from cognitive dysfunction to a weakened immune system. A lack of regular quality sleep clearly shows you need a change.
Most professionals recommend you get at least seven hours of sleep per night. Plan for nine hours a night to allow for settling into bed and any disturbances you have in the middle of the night. Turn off your phone and other screens a couple of hours before turning in, make sure your room is nice and cool, and drink some calming tea or take a deep sleep gummy to ensure a good night’s rest. You may notice a difference within a week.
2. You’re Getting Sick More Often
Most people catch a cold once or twice a year and maybe encounter the flu every few years. Whatever your “normal” is, if you start to notice that you’re getting sick more often, it could be a sign that your immune system is weak. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to germs that cause colds, the flu, and other illnesses. If there’s ever been motivation to change your health habits, this is it.
A weakened immune system can result from poor sleep, a poor diet, or a lack of exercise. The good news is that you can make all of these changes with minimal financial cost and a little effort. The first area to work on is your diet; cut down on junk food and add in a few fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Then, you can start taking daily walks and getting good sleep. These changes can start improving your immune system almost immediately.
3. You Suffer From Brain Fog
Brain fog is a problem many people just accept as part of life. You know you’re working too much or getting too little sleep, so you shrug it off as “normal.” Maybe you’re getting older, and you’ve heard brain fog is a natural part of aging. The reality is that brain fog can be a sign of a more significant issue like poor gut health or severe cognitive decline. It is essential to keep your brain healthy, and there are several actions you can take to do so.
First, get good sleep. Next, eat a healthy diet rich with vitamins and minerals to “feed” your brain and exercise most days of the week to improve blood flow. Also, keep your brain challenged with puzzles and crosswords, and learn new skills like language. Finally, ensure you have a solid social circle that keeps you engaged. These habits contribute to a healthy brain and can reduce or eliminate brain fog.
4. You Get Out of Breath Quickly and Easily
You’re playing with your kids, you run out to the mailbox, or you find yourself moving fast suddenly for some reason, and you notice you’re out of breath. Maybe you climbed more stairs than you’re used to. It can happen fast — one day, you think you’re fit, and the next, you realize you’re seriously out of shape. You should not get short of breath running around the lawn with your children, and you realize how much worse it could be with your future grandchildren.
Getting short of breath, winded, or feeling tired quickly after simple activities is a big red flag that it’s time to get into shape. The first step is to build cardio exercise into your life. Start with short daily walks and build up to jogging, biking, hiking, swimming, or anything else you enjoy that requires strenuous movement. From there, you can work on your diet, making exercising easier. Get fit and get your breath back under control.
5. You’re Always Cranky
One of the sneakiest signs of poor health habits is a bad mood. It’s one thing to feel one day or sleep poorly for a few nights on a rare occasion and get cranky. But if you’re in a bad mood, stressed, or depressed daily, it’s not your mood anymore; it’s now your personality. And it can often be tied back to your health habits. Poor sleep, a poor diet, insufficient exercise, stress, and no time spent outside can all destroy a positive outlook on life.
You may have heard that humans are basically complicated houseplants. You need enough water, food, and sunlight to thrive. Try getting up early every morning and getting 15 minutes of sunshine on your skin for a shot of vitamin D. Start a yoga practice and meditate before the rest of your household wakes up. And eat well and exercise! You may be surprised at how quickly your mood lifts, and you can start seeing the bright side of life.
Not everything in your life can be solved with sunshine, exercise, good food, plenty of sleep, and stress management. But, honestly, many things can, and if you’re not at least trying to make these changes, you’re not giving yourself a fighting chance. Of course, there are times when you need more serious intervention, but you can start on your own by changing the health habits discussed here. They may be a huge help, and they certainly can’t hurt.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The contents of this article should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Published by: Holy Minoza
