Many people must have written “prioritize health” at the top of their New Year’s resolution list this year. But how much of that resolution will come to fruition?

Unfortunately, this fast-paced, hectic life does not make it easy to stay healthy. From juggling work and family responsibilities to social life and the friends you want to see, you get so enmeshed in the day-to-day activities that your health takes a backseat. And then you wonder, “Why am I feeling so drained and exhausted?” “What is wrong with my body?” “Why do I not feel great?”

The answer is simple – you must make conscious choices to ensure your health is not compromised. You cannot expect to feel amazing if you ignore what your body needs. You will also be more prone to illness, stress, and fatigue from neglecting your health.

Luckily, you can make small changes in your lifestyle that will positively affect your overall well-being. Here are six effective tips to help you get started on the path to improved health and wellness:

1.    Look after your oral health

Many states in the U.S. promote dental hygiene for children and adults, and Florida is no different. According to the Florida Department of Health, brushing your teeth for two-three minutes at least twice a day and regular flossing is essential for good health. It will also keep your mouth free of bacteria and promote healthy gums.

Likewise, examine your teeth for irregularities, including cracks, chips, crowded or crooked teeth, gaps, and spaces. Regular checkups with an orthodontist can help you determine whether you have any of these issues and should use braces or aligners to straighten your teeth.

If you live in Florida and want the best orthodontic care available, look up an orthodontist specialist near me in Apollo Beach, Parrish & Sarasota, and get the treatment you need.

2.    Adopt healthy eating habits

Eating healthy is not about staying unrealistically thin, following a strict dietary regimen, or depriving yourself of the meals you love. Rather, it is about eating mindfully, understanding the impact of your food choices on your health, and choosing to make healthier decisions that allow you to feel energized, improve your physical and mental well-being, and reach your health goals.

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, choose whole grains and lean proteins, limit added sugar, and watch your portion sizes. Experiment with different preparation methods or varieties if you dislike certain healthy foods. For instance, if you do not like broccoli, try roasting it with garlic and olive oil. If red meat is not for you, try tofu or tempeh.

Round your meals with healthy fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens for added nutrition. Drinking at least 8 gallons of water and limiting sugary and calorie-dense drinks is also vital in boosting overall health and wellness.

3.    Incorporate physical activity into your routine

Physical activity has many health benefits, from boosting mood and energy levels to maintaining a healthy weight. You do not necessarily have to become a gym rat to reap the rewards – aim for 30 to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days.

You can choose anything from walking and jogging to swimming, biking, and aerobics. Any physical activity that gets your heart rate up counts. Remember to warm up before you begin and cool down when you are done.

You can also break up your daily activity into shorter chunks of time throughout the day – 10 minutes here, 15 minutes there. If you have a busy lifestyle, it can be hard to find the time for physical activity – why not take the stairs instead of the elevator or get off the bus earlier? It will all add up.

4.    Prioritize sleep

How often do you compromise on sleep to get more work done? While you may think that you are gaining more hours in the day, it is counterproductive: when you do not get enough rest, your body and mind suffer, leading to decreased concentration, fatigue, and a weakened immune system.

To ensure that you are performing at your best, you must prioritize getting enough sleep.

Aim for seven to eight hours of restful sleep a night, and if you need more, do not hesitate to take a nap in the afternoon or whenever you feel especially worn down. Create a nightly routine to help you unwind, relax, and make it easier to drift off peacefully. The environment, too, has a huge impact on sleep quality. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet (or as quiet as possible), and comfortable for a restful sleep.

5.    Practice meditating

Meditation is focusing on the present moment and calming one’s mind. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions.

Meditating also increases focus, productivity, and mental clarity. The key to a successful meditation practice is to start small — 5-10 minutes is plenty — and practice regularly.

There are various types of meditation, such as mindful and guided meditation. Choose the type of meditation that works best for you, find a comfortable spot, and start practicing. You will see your mood and mindset improve, your productivity increase, and you will have more mental clarity.

6.    Spend time with your loved ones

Whether it is a partner, family member, or best friend, having positive relationships will help you stay grounded and connected. It will also provide emotional support, enabling you to cope better with life’s ups and downs.

Make an effort to set aside time to spend with those you love so that you can share your feelings and have fun. Listen to each other’s stories, plan activities together, and show appreciation for the people in your life. It will help you to foster meaningful connections that can get you through tough times.

Stay connected via phone, text, or video calls if your friends or family do not live close by. You can also join a community group or organization that interests you, build new friendships and stay connected to the world around you. It will make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

Final thoughts

It is easy to put your health on the back burner when life gets busy, but it is important to remember that your well-being should always come first. Taking care of your oral health, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and adopting healthy eating habits are some ways to start your journey to improved health and wellness. Meditation and spending quality time with family and friends can also help keep your stress levels in check alongside your overall health. By following these tips and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can ensure that you are living your best life possible. A healthcare application that can be used on your device can also help to monitor and track your health and lifestyle.