Essentials
Physical Activity
Physical activity becomes the presence of regular engagement in health-based movement and activity that gets the heart pumping.
How that looks is up to you. Just don’t get caught without it.
Physical activity looks different for each of us. It ranges from bodybuilding to going on a walk – all that matters is that we are moving our bodies.
Engaging in physical activity can reduce feelings of anxiety and improve cognitive function.
Eating Habits
Eating habits can be defined as lack of, or excess of food intake. This includes the presence or absence of healthy foods, and the presence and absence of unhealthy foods.
Our stomach releases dopamine into our system, making eating habits a key part in our mental and physical health.
There are two things that directly affect our brain health of which we have complete control. Sleep, and our Eating Habits. The brain is a major consumer of any food you intake. In fact, it take approximately 20% of any fuel you put into your system.
So what you eat, and how much you eat directly affects how you think, problem solve and deal with day-to-day living. This makes it a major player in your overall mental as well as physical health.
Sleep Health
Sleep health can be different for everyone. In general terms, it’s the quality of sleep we get, and how rested we feel.
Too much or too little sleep takes it toll on our body and brain. Making it a priority is essential in our overall health.
Research shows that depending on the individual, we require 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
One of the critical aspects to the importance of sleep is that your brain is doing so much when you rest. Repairing neurons, storing memories, and recharging. You are a better you when you are rested. Which I am sure you already know.
Socialization
Socialization is something we all need. It varies based upon our personality. Some like a lot of social interactions. Others would rather have a small group of close friends. How that looks depends on you.
Socialization is anything you look forward to – lunch with a friend, a big trip , or attending a ball game.
A research university in London, England developed a mathematical formula for happiness. In the formula one of the key factors for happiness was having something to look forward to. The highlighted example used was the simple act of having lunch with a friend.
Making socialization a part of our routine and planning is important. When we are having difficulty, we need those that we love and trust there to support us.
