Spring is the perfect time for rebooting your health.
Why now? With a new season comes new life, when everything wakes up, greens up and brightens our environment. It can make us feel more alive and give us more energy and zest for life, physical activities and eating better.
Harness the power of the seasonal change to develop a new mindset toward developing some new habits that will boost your health and nutrition and set the stage for a lifetime of wellness.
Many people feel more motivation to make changes in their eating patterns and choices when the summer months are just ahead and something to look forward to. Do you want to look better in your summer wardrobe? Do you want to be able to play badminton with your kids without getting out of breath? Have you always wanted to learn to kayak or swim, but never made the time to learn? Or take a class to learn a new activity like stand-up paddle boarding?
Discovering your abilities to learn, grow and make changes in your lifestyle habits can bring you immense joy, satisfaction and confidence. Making healthy changes in your lifestyle and food habits may seem easier and less of a burden to you in the spring and summer months. Sunshine (along with longer days) elevates our mood and gives us more time to enjoy fun and scenic family adventures and outdoor activities.
Farmer’s markets open in May. Buying farm-fresh veggies can elevate food quality and make nutritious meals a snap. Take advantage of them and buy what is grown nearby and coming out of the ground right now. The sooner you eat (and enjoy) those vegetables, the more nutrients you’ll get.
What are the best health habits to start now? Here are some ideas for you:
Want more exercise? Exercise not only burns calories, it churns out endorphins and stimulates our brain to feel good while lowering stress and blood pressure and strengthening muscles, bones and even your brain.
Want to feel more peace, less anxiety and more confident? Research is showing that outside activity, especially in nature, is associated with feelings of love, altruism, self-esteem and calm.
Want more nutrition? Dig in to fresh and delicious summer produce. It may help you lose or control your weight, since it’s mostly water and super-low in calories. It’s also full of fiber, and that means they’re filling as well as nutrient-rich. Adding more produce might also help you experience fewer aches and pains because they’re full of antioxidants that lower inflammation. People who eat more produce also lower their risk of type 2 diabetes. Try adding a fruit of veggie to every meal.
Want to improve your hydration? Set a designated water bottle aside to use every day. Fill it up at night before bed and it’s ready to grab and go in the morning.
Get started today!
Kim Larson is a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified health and wellness coach and founder of Total Health. Visit www.totalhealthrd.com or www.facebook.com/totalhealthnutrition for more. Follow her on Twitter at @healthrd. This column is for information only and not intended as personal medical advice.
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