Certain health habits generate a much larger return on investment than others. Regularly reviewing which health habits give us the best returns and which need to be re-assessed, is a great way to establish long-term health. Some powerful health habits include:
A powerful mindset – When our mind and body combine to create the healthy person we wish to be, long-term health is inevitable! Three factors are critical to creating quality thoughts. First, our motivation to achieve a given outcome, second, our habits aligned to that achievement and third, our resistance to change.
Correct Breathing – Although we have evolved to breathe primarily from the belly, many factors, such as stress, poor posture and poor diet can interfere and promote shallow chest breathing instead. This can cause neck tension, back pain, headaches and postural decline. Practice correct breathing technique by placing one hand on the belly and extending it out like a balloon, while taking in a slow deep breath. This is also a great relaxation exercise.
Hydration – After oxygen, water is the most crucial element of human survival. It is essential for digestion, immunity, detoxification and brain function. Drink one litre of quality water each day, for every 30 kg of body weight and add a pinch of Celtic or Himalayan sea salt to re-mineralise the water and prolong hydration.
Nutrition – Being healthy, vibrant and energetic is a simple process if we follow some basic guidelines. Eat the types of foods our ancestors ate, eat as clean as possible (natural, chemical-free produce and grass-fed meats), rotate food over four days (eat different things each day) and from time to time, restrict food intake for 12-24 hours to give the body a break.
Movement – As part of a well-rounded lifestyle, exercise is essential, given that we are built to move. Exercise improves circulation,immunity, mental clarity and the physical resilience of the body. Moving for at least 30 minutes a day with not only improve your quality, but quantity of life.
Recovery – Whether it’s a 10-minute break in the fresh air, an hour massage, or a proper night’s sleep, it’s vital to have essential down-time. Proper sleep is the single most effective form of recovery and some simple ways to improve sleep involve relaxing more at night, dimming the lights, sleeping regular hours and creating a cave-like darkness in the bedroom.
