8 Healthy Habits To Start This Fall
Habits take time to build. As we all know, it's significantly easier to create new habits when life is not as crazy busy. The chaos of the start of school and changes in the new season have come and gone, making fall the perfect time to start new healthy habits. Here are 8 healthy habits to being this autumn season.
Starting a new habit, let alone a healthy habit, can be overwhelming. So, start with one or two habits from this list and strive to become your healthiest self!
Make Sleep A Priority
As sunsets come earlier and dark falls quickly, take this as a sign to reevaluate your sleep schedule. According to the Sleep Foundation, if you are 14-17 years old, you should be getting 8 to 10 hours of sleep. If you are over 18 years old, your body needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep. A good night’s sleep is critical for optimal health, and has been proven time and time again!
With the current state of the world, make the effort to put yourself back on a healthy track. Hop into bed a few hours earlier or even sleep in if time allows. Give your body the energy it needs because if you want to accomplish your goals, you’ll need it!
Eat More Seasonal Veggies
Is anyone else crazy like me and loves veggies? Maybe even over fruit! Fall is a great time to take advantage of what’s in season. Pumpkins, broccoli, cauliflower, potatoes, beans, shall I keep going or are you already on your way to your local fruit market! Just as you would much on a watermelon on a hot summer's day, incorporate fall vegetables into your meals. Not only are they good for you, but veggies provide nutrients, especially potassium and fiber, that your body needs.
If you’re having trouble eating your vegetables, drink them! About six months ago, I found tablets that simply go into my water that will give me all that I need from eating a few servings of vegetables. With a few shakes and the occasional added Crystal Lite, I’m getting all that I need!
Be Mindful
Mindfulness means intentionally focusing your attention on the present moment or task. With all of the distractions of your life online, it can be easy to mentally be elsewhere. When you are with your family or friends, be with them and instead of social media. When you are studying or working, put all of your attention into what you are doing, rather than sending a text that can wait. Understand your thoughts, acknowledge them, and then let them go. By practicing mindfulness, you can enjoy living in the moment, keep stress under control, and be more aware of how you are feeling.
Fall Back Into A Fitness Routine
Now that the craziness of September has come and gone, start fresh with a new workout regimen or fall back into a fitness routine. I am guilty - I was doing so well until… I could give you excuse after excuse. Finally, whether you are in a new fall routine at school, work, home, or wherever, get back into feeling good with your body. Wake up 20 minutes early and listen to your favorite podcast while you walk up and down your street. Set aside time during your lunch break to hit the gym or do an at-home workout. There are endless opportunities for you to get back into what you told yourself you would do at the beginning of the year, so reevaluate and start now.