Spring isn’t just the best time to clean your home. To ensure that your body stays in great shape, you should also take it as a time to take a good look at your health. To help you get started, here are 7 ways to spring clean your health.
Get Outside
Most Americans (as much as 50% of us) spend way too much time indoors. As we age, our outdoor time tends to decrease even more. A lot of that time is spent in front of TVs, computer screens, and other unhealthy activities.
Getting outside even for a few minutes every day can be a big mood and immune system booster. It can also increase your Vitamin D levels.
Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to a number of health issues including insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and low immune function.
Get Active
Regular physical activity has many benefits. It can promote better cardiovascular health, normal blood sugar, and fewer episodes of depression and anxiety.
Don’t care for the gym?
Now that it’s getting warmer and getting dark later, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors to get more activity. Spring is a great time to find new ways to get fit. You can go for a run, hike or bike ride.
Find a group of friends who also want to get in shape so you don’t have to go alone. Outdoor activity can be more fun if you have friends with you.
Don’t forget to take a look at and replace any workout shoes that are worn out or that you have been using for over a year. They can make you prone to injuries and pain after.
Check Your Sleep Routine
An inconsistent sleep pattern can have serious implications on your health. So, take this time to start making it a priority.
Do you have trouble falling asleep?
Try developing a regular schedule that includes exercise, chamomile tea, yoga, turning off electronics, and setting an alarm even on your days off.
See Also: Importance Of Sleep: How It Can Put Your Health In Serious Jeopardy
Find Ways To Reduce Your Stress
High stress levels can also have serious consequences on your health as it plays a role in the development of many illnesses and chronic diseases. Find some time each day to put away your work and take time to de-stress.
If you can, get rid of some of the things that are stressing you out or stealing your peace of mind. Finding even 30 minutes a day to devote to meditation, deep breathing, reading, a hobby or just taking time for yourself can make a huge difference.
See Also: The Profound Effects Of Meditation On The Mind
Eat More Fruits And Vegetables
Winter meals often consist of heavier comfort foods. They are often full of carbs and can lack the important nutrients your body needs.
Spring can be a great time to plant your own healthy fruits and veggies, visit a farmer’s market or try new fruits and vegetables that are now in season. Most don’t need a lot of prep work. You can even freeze them for future meals.
Check Your Medicine Cabinet
As you are decreasing clutter in your home, don’t neglect your medicine cabinet. Check the expiration dates on your medications and get rid of anything outdated- even if they look or smell good.
The same goes for your makeup. Eye makeup should be tossed after three months. Anything else should not be hanging around for more than a year.
Schedule A Wellness Exam
Are you up to date on your immunizations, colonoscopy, mammogram, PAP tests, and dental exams?
Wellness exams are a perfect time to talk to your doctor about any screening labs and tests. You should take them depending on your health history, family history, and age group.
Don’t skip it just because you are healthy. Wellness exams are key in preventing and detecting illness and disease in their early stages.