With your busy schedule, finding time to take care of your health can be tricky. However, there are simple ways to get the whole family involved. Here are ten hacks to prioritize your health.
1. Serve Those Vegetables
Eating vegetables is essential to your well-being. They have vital nutrients that can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. You need to consume at least two to three cups a day for a proper diet.
To encourage picky eaters to consume vegetables, try to present them in a fun way. For example, you could have your child think of broccoli as tiny trees. You can also try adding some veggies to some kid-friendly foods, such as muffins or smoothies. For a subtle approach, mix vegetables into your sauces.
2. Stay Active
Exercising daily helps keep your body healthy and reduces stress. It can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. With so many different workout classes available, you can easily find fun ways to stay active.
Also, take time to go outside and do a family activity, like tossing a ball around. It can be an excellent opportunity to bond and get some exercise. If you have younger kids, consider spending the day at your local park.
3. Regularly Visit the Doctor
You probably have a lot going on with work and taking care of your kids. Yet, it’s essential to stay updated on your doctor’s appointments. You should see your provider at least every three years if you’re under the age of 50.
During the health care visit, the doctor can catch any signs of disease and take preventive measures early. Regular visits also help establish a positive relationship with your physician. When you schedule your appointments, keep these dates marked on your calendar. Then download a mobile app, such as ZocDoc, to manage all your healthcare information.
4. Take Time for Yourself
As a busy parent, it can be hard to find time to relax. Taking some time just to sit and unwind is critical. It can help reduce stress, making it easier to fight off illness. Consider taking a bath or reading a book. Alone time can also help your kids recharge. So, make it a family thing by designating a portion of the day for personal care.
5. Cook With Your Family
Cooking is an excellent family bonding activity. It can give everyone a chance to help out and even have a say in the meal. Kids also learn how foods affect their bodies and are likely to make smarter choices.
While cooking, they will pick on basic skills, such as math and reading. Plus, it means less work for you. Try making a chicken in red pepper sauce dish for a flavorful and healthy meal. Keep in mind cooking classes are fun weekend activities for the family.
6. Get a Good Night’s Rest
Sleep is important for your body to function properly. Without proper rest, you can find it harder to focus and remember things. Not enough sleep can even affect your relationships since you may be moodier.
In fact, adults need at least seven to nine hours of sleep. It can be hard to get this if your mind is racing at night. To rest more soundly, get up at the same time each day, even on the weekends. Also, put your tablets and electronics away at night.
7. Take Advantage of Your Freezer
To help prepare meals for the week, make a larger portion and freeze the leftovers. The method will save you time in the kitchen and reduce unnecessary trips to the store. Soups and stews are good options that your family can enjoy for dinner and then lunch the next day. When putting them in the freezer, store them properly using foil and plastic wrap.
8. Eat Meals as a Family
Sharing meals is an excellent way to connect with one another. It can improve your child’s posture since they aren’t slumped over a couch. It also allows them to slow down and enjoy the food instead of mindlessly eating. Besides health reasons, eating with your family can build stronger relationships. It can make your children feel seen and heard.
With everyone on different schedules, it can be hard to make time to gather around the table. Consider setting a specific time for dinner and putting it in your calendar. During the meal, be sure to put away cell phones that could become distractions.
9. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is key to staying hydrated, which can prevent fatigue and illness. Getting plenty of water can help flush out toxins and keep your temperature normal. In fact, women need about 11.5 cups a day and men need 15.5 cups.
As we spend the day running around, drinking liquid can slip our brains. To help increase your water intake, set a daily goal. In addition, place a reusable water bottle on your office desk. If you don’t like the bland taste of water try flavoring it with fruit.
10. Upgrade to a Standing Desk
The average person spends about six and half hours a day sitting. With more people working from home, they spend most of their day in front of the computer. Sitting for too long can lead to chronic back pain. A standing desk encourages you to stretch throughout the day. Along with your desk, get a comfy chair with an armrest.
Tips for Staying Healthy
Taking care of your well-being doesn’t always require lots of time and effort. There are simple things the whole family can do. Follow these hacks to live a long and healthy life.
