Becoming Your Healthiest Self

Posted on by nwmind5bg

Becoming Your Healthiest Self

Individuals all have unique health needs, specific to their body and mind. To create the healthiest version of you, it may take some self discovery, however, there are steps we can take to help ourselves along the way. The National Institute of Health (NIH) has provided the public with wellness toolkits to help promote everyone becoming their healthiest self. The following list highlights some of the NIH’s most useful tips.

Improve Your Emotional Health

  • Reduce stress
    • Make sure you are getting enough sleep
    • Set priorities, decide what you must do and what can wait
    • Try out new relaxation methods, such as yoga or meditation
  • Attempt to brighten your outlook
    • Note your accomplishments rather than focusing on what you haven’t done
    • Forgive yourself and remember that people make mistakes
    • Give yourself credit for the good deeds and positivity you spread
  • Try to be more mindful
    • Enjoy strolls and admire your surroundings
    • Practice mindful eating, enjoying the flavors and experience
    • Take deep breaths: “Breathe in through your nose to a count of 4, hold for 1 second and then exhale through the mouth to a count of 5. Repeat often.”

Improve Your Physical Health

  • Increase your activity level
    • Try walking or biking in your free time or as an alternative mode of transportation
    • Take the stairs instead of an elevator when possible
    • Try strength exercises, such as using hand weights at home
  • Find a healthy weight for your body
    • Eat healthy
      • Be mindful of portion size
      • Limit added sugars
      • Try to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meals or eat them as snacks
    • Be active
      • Find activities that you enjoy so they don’t feel like work
      • Get active even if you don’t have much time, every bit counts

Improve Your Social Health

  • Take care of yourself while caring for others
    • Ask for help with tasks when needed
    • Help stay organized with things such as to-do lists or a daily routine
    • Make time for your hobbies and interests when you can
  • Build healthy relationships
    • Share your honest feelings with others
    • Listen to others without judgement
    • Set boundaries with people when necessary
  • Make new social connections
    • Join a group focused around one of your hobbies or interests
    • Take a class and learn a new skill
    • Join a local community group
    • Find volunteer opportunities 

Improve Your ENvironment

  • Make your home healthier
    • Try to use “Safer Choice” or non-toxic products when cleaning
    • When cleaning, open a window or use a fan for better air circulation
    • Maintain a good ventilation system within your home
  • Stay safe against extreme hot and cold weather
    • Wear sunglasses to protect against UVA and UVB
    • Use sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB with a SPF of at least 15, but preferably higher
    • Drink plenty of water when spending time in hot weather
    • In cold weather, dress in proper layers and rain protection if necessary

More information and RESOURCES

  • To learn more about becoming your healthiest self, we suggest the following link to NIH’s wellness toolkits: https://www.nih.gov/health-information/your-healthiest-self-wellness-toolkits
  • We recommend talking to your healthcare provider with any additional questions you may have.