Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
Happy people engage in habits that help them sustain their positive wellbeing even in the most challenging situations. With that in mind, periodically spring cleaning our habits can help build positive habits and kick out unwanted ones. It’s time to take out your metaphorical dust rag and jumpstart your warmer weather routine by spring cleaning your habits.
Greet the day. Develop the habit of being a cheerful riser. Take a moment before fully getting out of bed to take a couple of deep breaths, wiggle your toes, and gently press the balls and heels of your feet into the floor. Create a happy atmosphere by outlining three positive things about the upcoming day and don’t be afraid to pivot if things don’t go as planned.
Set a “good alarm.” A good alarm can be used as a reminder to establish healthier habits or simply bring more joy to the day. For example, set a good alarm to remind you to start a bedtime routine so you can get an adequate amount of rest. You can also set a good alarm as a nudge to drink more water, stand up and stretch, or smile and listen to a happy song.
Find excuses to move – outside the gym. Take advantage of the warmer weather and increased sunlight. Go for walks with friends, play outdoor sports like golf and tennis, hike, garden, and do outdoor home repairs. Add movement to your daily routine by incorporating activities like taking a walk in between meetings or exploring your neighborhood. Your body and mind will thank you!
Develop better sunscreen habits. Summer is right around the corner, and it’s a perfect time to establish solid SPF habits. Many people forget to reapply sunscreen as needed. Be sure to pack sunscreen for you and your littles as you increase time spent outdoors.
Prioritize sleep. Are you getting adequate rest? Now is the perfect time to reevaluate your routines. The key to a productive and happy morning starts the night before. Prepare for the next day by creating positive intentions of what you will accomplish. Do you plan to exercise? Try setting out your clothes beforehand. Review your schedule and determine where you will take moments to be mindful. Aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep to enjoy proper rest and rejuvenation.
Thank the day. Take a moment to think through the day. What went well? What can you improve? Acknowledge the good and let go of the bad. Consider writing down two things you are grateful for each day.
Give your habits a spring cleaning with these quick tips:
- 1-Minute Tip: It may sound silly, but this is a quick and easy task that improves your oral health and helps you feel refreshed.
- 5-Minute Tip: Prep your fruits and veggies as you unpack them from the grocery store. Rinse and cut them for easy grab-and-go snacks.
- 15-Minute Tip: Identify one habit you want to eliminate. Then think of three ways eliminating this habit will improve your health. Commit in writing!
- 30-Minute Tip: Spend thirty minutes completely offline. While you prepare for bed, drive home from work, or even as you clean – it doesn’t matter. Logging off even for a short time can boost your mood and give you a chance to improve social connections, properly rest, and improve posture.
Reference:
https://time.com/5221500/spring-clean-health-tips/
