As summer draws near, so do beach vacations, barbecues and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or prefer a little downtime at the park, there’s no better time than now to focus on your health and happiness. At Adriatica Women’s Health, we’ve put together a list of simple steps you can take so you can start to live your healthiest life.
How to live a healthier life
Managing your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being. Let’s take a look at a few simple steps you can take toward a healthier life.
Develop and nurture friendships
Women who have close personal relationships have better cognitive health and longevity, so find a few of your closest friends and reconnect with them if you’ve fallen out of touch. Make it a priority to spend quality time with your friends on a regular basis, because happiness, love and laughter may help boost your immune system, elevate your mood and decrease pain.
Get plenty of shut-eye
Western cultures have a tendency to devalue sleep, however, it is very important for maintaining good health, keeping your mind strong and remaining focused and alert throughout the day. Adults should try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.
Move your body
Exercise is a fundamental part of good health, so get your blood pumping at least 30 minutes each day. It can be as easy as taking a brisk walk during your lunch break or a bike ride in the morning before your day begins.
Eat well
Another fundamental part of good health is eating a healthy diet. Make sure you are eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Women who are trying to become pregnant should increase their intake of foods that contain folic acid (as well as take a prenatal vitamin). Aging women should focus on adding calcium into their diet as the risk of osteoporosis increases with age.
Apply sunscreen generously
Melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults, particularly women. Sunscreen not only protects you from many different types of skin cancer, it can also help reduce sun damage, which ages the skin. Be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day to limit your UV exposure and avoid tanning beds altogether.
For more information about Adriatica Women’s Health, or to schedule an appointment, call 972-542-8884. You can also schedule an appointment using our easy online form.