Many of us lead very busy lives. Especially when living in crowded urban cities, we forget to slow down and take care of ourselves and our well-being. Here are 7 healthy habits that can change that.
Stimulate your brain.
It’s important to keep your brain healthy. Studies show that reading can lower levels of stress hormones such as cortisol. Specifically reading works of fiction can help sharpen your analytical thinking and uplift mood. If you don’t have time for reading, listen to a podcast on your way to work or sign up for a language class on Duolingo. These mental stimulations can slow down aging and even delay the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Drink lots of water.
Every cell in your body needs water to function properly. Make sure to stay hydrated (around 8 cups a day) so that your body can naturally remove harmful toxins and decrease the chances of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Stretch every day.
You’ve heard this time and time again: exercising regularly (5-6 days/week) for 30 minutes can have major impacts on your mental and physical health. Even a brisk walk or some deep stretches can help maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints as well as reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
Ditch the phone 30 minutes before bed.
Cutting down on screen time will not only help you feel less anxiety and FOMO, but it will also prepare you for a better night’s sleep. The blue light from electronic devices actually suppresses the release of melatonin, messing up your body’s natural circadian rhythm. Put down your phone a little earlier, and get a solid 7 to 9 hours of sleep. It’ll improve your mood, memory, and focus.
Don’t skip breakfast.
Those who eat a healthy breakfast consume more vitamins and minerals and less fat and cholesterol throughout the day than those who don’t. Not to mention, they do better at work, have higher attention spans, and generally feel more energized. Eat breakfast every day, even if it’s just a bowl of fruit or toasted whole-grain bread.
Keep a journal.
Taking some time each day to reflect and write down your thoughts can help release any built up stress you might have. It may feel like an outdated practice or a chore, but this mindfulness is good for your brain in the long run. Maybe start with a daily or weekly gratitude journal. It’ll get you in the groove of writing and put you in the right attitude for the holiday season.
Get to know your neighbors.
As social creatures, humans require strong relationships to survive and thrive. Studies show that people who know their neighbors and perceive them as trustworthy are more likely to report higher rates of health and well-being. Social face-to-face connections can increase one’s sense of belonging and purpose and increase feelings of happiness and confidence, which is why it’s important to know (and love) thy neighbor.
At Common, you can achieve all of these healthy habits. We have fully furnished, private bedrooms and beautiful shared spaces in friendly homes to make living in a big city and with roommates better. You’ll have a fully stocked kitchen to make breakfast, the privacy you need to start a journal, and suitemates to get to know. Learn more about our homes here.
These 7 healthy habits might seem simple, but they’re worth your time. Because at the end of the day, you’ll be a more efficient, successful, and happier person.