If You Don’t Take Control Of What You Can Control, THEY Will!

Living a healthy lifestyle is a mission that many of us have, but it can be quite a challenge to know how/where to start. We need to take charge of our health and make conscious choices to improve our well-being. If we don’t do this, external factors such as genetics, environmental toxins, and stress can take over and negatively impact our health. Add to this all the people, companies, and organizations that we interact with daily who want us to buy their product(s) which will magically “create a healthier you” (and make them rich). There are a ton of influences out there…and “they” don’t always have our best interest in mind.

Taking control of what we can control means focusing on the things that we have power over. These things include our diet, exercise routine, stress levels, and sleep habits. By making conscious choices in these areas, we can improve our health and reduce our risk of chronic disease. Here are some tips on how we can take control of our health and live a healthier life:

Focus on a healthy diet: A healthy diet is one of the most important things we can do to take control of our health. We need to introduce varieties of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to our diet. We really gotta avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of alcohol at all costs. Eating a healthy diet can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Make exercise a priority: Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and improving our overall well-being. Aim for at least 30-45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling. Incorporate strength training exercises to build muscle and improve bone health.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can have a negative impact on our health, leading to inflammation, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. To manage stress, try practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as reading, spending time in nature, or listening to music.

Prioritize sleep: This is the one I’m constantly working on (and usually failing at). Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep schedule. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and avoid using electronic devices before bed.

By taking control of what we can control, we can live healthier lives and reduce our risk of major health issues. Remember that small changes can add up over time, so don’t feel overwhelmed by trying to make too many changes all at once. Start with one or two areas that you feel you can improve and go from there. With time and dedication, you can take control of your health and achieve your goals.