Each year, people set new resolutions: study more, reduce screen time, call loved ones more frequently, exercise regularly… We are all familiar with these. The challenge, however, isn’t in choosing a resolution or even selecting a goal at any time of the year. Rather, the challenge is often in sticking to these lifestyle changes.
Bettering Your Health, Escaping Stress
It can feel daunting to want to improve your health and find quick and efficient ways to do so. It might not be possible for everyone to meet their goals—whether it’s fitting in a 45-minute brisk walk, being more environmentally conscious while shopping, or even relaxing to escape stress and its physical manifestations. Having these goals can be tough when there never seems to be enough time in the day. There are, however, ways that are not at all time-consuming which allow you to develop healthier habits, as well as tools and objects that allow people to meet several goals at once. Take the Mobot water bottle, for example. It can be used as both a water bottle and as a foam roller to help massage and relax muscles. It is also reusable, thus helping reduce plastic waste.
Health Benefits of Staying Hydrated
There are many reasons why hydration is important. One obvious reason is that drinking enough water helps with migraine prevention, which more people suffer from today due to increased screen time. This is because long exposure to digital screens causes eye strain and fatigue, which can lead to migraines. In addition to preventing migraines, hydration also benefits other areas of health such as better digestion, higher energy levels and better brain function: as even just mild dehydration can affect memory, mood, concentration and reaction time.
The Link Between (Improved) Physical Health and (Improved) Mental Health
In an age where everyone feels varying levels of stress or anxiety, it is no secret that better physical health can lead to better mental health. As demonstrated in numerous scientific studies and health documentaries, exercise releases feel-good hormones, known as endorphins, into the brain. Even short bursts of activity, like 10 minutes of walking, can improve mood and awareness. The reverse is also true: prioritizing and maintaining good mental health can support physical health. Being in a positive mental state can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Taking steps to improve psychological well-being, such as managing stress or using the right medications, can also help prevent respiratory illnesses and, in some cases, diabetes.
Why Improving and Protecting Your Health is Important
As we are often reminded by those around us, it is important to take care of our health. Mental well-being has historically been overlooked, but we now understand that physical and mental health are deeply connected. The goal is not just to live longer, but to live better. We know how stress affects people, and identifying and avoiding triggers can help. Taking steps to improve one area of your health also benefits the other. For example, going for a walk can reduce stress, and managing stress effectively can help prevent other physical health issues.