How to be Healthy: 10 Tips from the Healthiest (and Happiest) People
New health advice comes out every day and it can be hard to decipher viable tips from embellished fads. To help you set achievable goals, we’ve compiled a cheat sheet on how to be healthy, as told by the healthiest and happiest people from around the Internet. Implement their secrets and habits and you’ll be feeling your best in no time!
1. They eat breakfast.
You’ve heard this one a million times before, so it probably doesn’t come as a shock that the healthiest people always eat breakfast. Studies show that eating in the morning can aid in long term weight maintenance, increase mental performance, and support a healthy immune and skeletal system.
2. They don’t take any s*!t.
Pardon the language, but having a backbone and standing up for yourself gives you a sense of freedom and confidence. Your life is your own and you should be free to live it however you please (see #10 for more confidence-building awesomeness).
3. They laugh.
While it can be difficult to go with the flow, take a cue from the healthiest people and find humor in something small. Whether it’s a joke from a coworker, something your pet does, or learning to laugh off something “horrible” like spilling coffee down your shirt, laughing every day is key to optimal health and happiness.
4. They don’t hold grudges.
Take the joy of laughter a step further and let pent-up, unnecessary anger go. Holding onto the hurt of past transgressions isn’t going to help you. You don’t have to tell anyone you’re moving on or make it a big deal… just take a moment to personally acknowledge that you are done thinking useless, negative thoughts about people from your past, or those currently in your life.
5. They follow a routine.
Having a routine helps you form habits, meaning your brain doesn’t have to work hard all the time. For example, if you always eat dinner at 6 p.m., your brain doesn’t have to figure out your evening plan every single day. There are countless benefits of following a routine, including building efficiency and lowering the willpower you put into making yourself do stuff like exercise or cook healthy meals.
6. They believe in something.
Whether that’s a higher power, Karma, a crystal ball, or something else, it’s important to have something that keeps you going and encourages you to be a good person. I absolutely believe in Karma and positive energy/thoughts, and this really helps me to not dwell on the negative (there seems to be a pattern here!).
7. They have a release.
Busy people need a way to release stress. Maybe for you that’s exercise, skydiving, video games, yoga, or baking. It can even be as simple as sharing a laugh with friends over dessert. Whatever it is for you, find a way to have fun.
8. They’re open to new experiences.
People who are open to new experiences are often happier for a number of reasons. They’re more creative, have an easier time letting things go (remember those old grudges?), and often experience less stress thanks to their ability to adapt to change.
9. They limit alcohol and unhealthy food intake.
Sometimes, a “YOLO” moment like getting a promotion, reaching a weight goal, or finding your dream home warrants a night out filled with cupcakes and adult beverages. The healthiest and happiest people however, find healthy ways to celebrate smaller achievements so they’re not derailing their wellness efforts each week. Take a walk to release some endorphins or make a healthy dinner with your family… Just remember that “cheat” foods and drinks aren’t always a reward.
10. They accept themselves.
This is the big kahuna. If you can’t be happy with yourself in whatever situation you’re in, you won’t be happy in different circumstances either. This is often the most difficult change to master, but you can get there with a little practice. Start by listing three things you like about yourself each day, mixing in skills, appearance, your treatment of others, and anything else you like!
We like you just the way you are and are happy to share health and wellness tips with you. Wellness is a combination of factors and we want to help you achieve your goals. Check out our health fair options to monitor your physical health alongside your emotional and mental health.