Health and fitness aren't solely about the short-term rewards; it's also about setting ourselves up for a long and prosperous future. By incorporating simple wellness practices into our daily routine, we can ensure we age well and care for our bodies—today and for decades to come.
1. Stretch throughout the day.
Whether or not you're exercising, you should be stretching in the morning, as well as throughout the day. Especially if you work a desk job or spend the majority of your day sitting, stretching is essential for improving posture, combatting aches, and prompting positive blood flow in your body. Try incorporating these three stretches into your daily routine.
2. Drink water—and then drink some more.
We probably sound like a broken record at this point (articles on hydration here, here, and here), but it's because hydration is THAT important. If you're not drinking water, you're actively harming your health, speeding up aging, and generally slowing down your body. It's like driving a car without engine oil. You get the picture.
3. Use fitness apps/trackers.
While we're not huge fans of calorie counting (learn more about intuitive eating here), fitness trackers are a great way to record your steps and monitor your heart rate. Likewise, sleep trackers will analyze the quality of your sleep, helping you to make necessary adjustments for better zzz's. If you have an iPhone, you can see how many steps you're taking with the built-in pedometer. It's an excellent trick for encouraging more movement.
4. Wear sunscreen.
Regardless of where you live and regardless of the season, you should be wearing sunscreen every day. The sun is damaging to your skin, and it's harmful to your health. Opt for a natural, organic, and cruelty-free brand.
5. Practice mindfulness.
Healthy living isn't all about food and fitness—you must take care of your emotional and mental health too. Anxiety and stress have been linked to aging and physical health problems, which is why we recommend everyone try yoga, breathing exercises, and mindfulness apps.
What are your favorite life hacks for keeping healthy and aging well? Share with us on Facebook or Instagram!
