Change is in the air—not just because a New Year is ahead and fresh goals are being made. Something bigger is brewing, and it has been for a while now. We’re paying closer attention to what we eat and how we treat our bodies. People are smoking less, trying to sleep more and figuring out ways to manage stress. We’re aware of the impact our actions have on the earth, and we’re taking steps to prevent future damage. Living more naturally feels like the right thing to do. But if the concept is new to you, how do you get started?
Following a more natural lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated, and you don’t have make a giant leap or do everything all at once. Here are five simple changes you can start making today:
- Eat organic as often as you can. When you choose organic foods over conventionally grown foods, you are decreasing your exposure to a host of chemicals, including agricultural toxins such as pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers, which can affect your health over time. Organic options may be more expensive, but think of each purchase you make as making a choice for you and your health.
- Devote at least 20 minutes a day to moving your body. Being more active doesn’t have to involve signing up for a gym membership or devoting an entire hour a day to rigorous exercise. Just get moving! It can be walking, biking, swimming, dancing, weight lifting, pilates, Zumba or whatever brings you joy through movement. If possible, do a variety of aerobic exercises that increase your heart rate and make you sweat and breathe hard. Be sure to stretch after your workouts to prevent injury and to keep your body flexible.
- Quit or cut back on coffee. Instead of gulping down a big mug of coffee in the morning, try a delicious herbal coffee substitute like Teeccino Mediterranean Vanilla Nut Herbal Coffee (made from organic carob, barley, chicory, dates, almonds, vanilla, figs and natural nut flavor) or Kaffree Roma made from roasted malt barley with chicory and rye. You can add coconut milk and honey or sugar-free stevia to your morning brew and enjoy without the acid and caffeine jolt from coffee.
- Take a multivitamin with a breakfast. A good multivitamin is like a health insurance policy. It ensures that you’re getting adequate levels of key nutrients that your body needs to function optimally. Try a food-based supplement made with organic ingredients, such as Natural Factors Whole Earth & Sea Multivitamin, and take it with your first meal every morning so it becomes part of your daily routine.
- Say hello to healthy fats. Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3s, are necessary for health, but your body can’t make them on its own. Be sure you’re getting enough by making healthy oils, like flaxseed oil or hemp oil, a regular part of your diet. They can be added easily to salad dressings or sauces, or simply drizzle a teaspoon or two on something you’ve cooked.
Remember that health is the end result of choices you make each and every day. You can choose health right now and create a new you this New Year!