For the first part of with the Habits of Happiness series, we will focus on ensuring that you are physically healthy.
A healthy body and mind can lead to well-being and happiness. This could be due to an increase in happiness hormones, being more social in group sports, and eating a healthy diet that is packed with great nutrients.
You can clearly see that, physical well-being is a result of exercises, what we eat, how often we consume food, and how long we are asleep.
Let’s get moving
We have all heard about the effects of research and exercise on our physical health as well as our emotional wellbeing. The NHS guidelines recommend that we perform a combination of exercises that are aerobic and strengthening regularly. This National Health Service (UK health authority body) website offers more details on the best mix for different age groups. You can find more information here.
Studies have shown the fact that after exercising, you feel great and happy. The hormones that are present in the bodies get released, and the feeling of well-being is increased.
“Some researchers believe that exercise can act as an escape from thoughts of negativity (Smith, 2006). Some argue that exercise boosts mood through the personal development and achievement that come from the effort to master an athletic skill (Strahler 2009). Further, research indicates that social interaction in various forms activities (such as group sports) can boost happiness and, consequently, improve mood (Stubbed 2007). (pursuit of happiness).org).
Consider ways to get started adding exercise to your routine. For instance, could you join an exercise club, be part of a sports team, or sign up for the Tough MUDder or Spartan race? Any activity that is physically active can improve the overall feeling of well-being.
Food for a great mood
Good nutrition and a healthy diet are the foundation of the way we feel, and affects our personality well-being, health and general wellbeing in daily life. Psychological psychiatry that is focused on nutrition focuses on the effects of supplements and food on our mental health. Food affects our mood and ensuring that the right proportion of proteins, carbs and fats in our diet is vital to our overall health.
The impact of food choices on our mood is best comprehended through our own personal memories of the last moment we had poor food versus the last time we had the right one.
Certain studies studies Certain studies say that the gut is the second brain of our body; therefore we must make sure we are feeding the right kinds of beneficial bacteria that can help to improve the digestion and gut. Incorporating fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, and kefir to probiotics, you can enjoy an improved and more healthy body from within.
Resting in order to repair
Sleep is essential to our physical health and general mental well-being. How many of you feel rough and swollen when you’ve slept poorly or have a candle burning on both sides?
When we sleep, we take a break in our beds, recover, and replenish ourselves, which is vital for our emotional well-being, general happiness, and outlook on life. Many elements affect the quality of sleep we get, and by following a few bedtime routines, it is possible to allow ourselves to relax and enjoy quality sleep. Find out more about healthy sleeping habits and tricks here.
The sun will brighten your day
Many years ago, I was at a cleanse retreat that was held in Turkey, and I particularly remember a woman who would sit under the sunlight for at least one hour per day. She would frequently tell me to look at the sun and soak up the sun’s rays.
Sunlight is a key component of physical health and is a major factor in feeling in a positive mood. In the winter months, people may be affected by SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), which shows how the absence of sunlight can affect the way we feel and our emotional environment.
Being outdoors and absorbing some of the sun’s rays is beneficial to our physical well-being and also provides vital Vitamin D. The most important thing is to remain secure in the sun and yet reap the benefits.
Together, these aspects that relate to our physical health can be incorporated into our daily lives to help us feel more vitality, energy, and joy. What are the steps you can take?
What can organizations do to assist their staff
There are a myriad of ways companies can incorporate the habit into their work environment. From fitness classes to organizing talks by experts on healthy eating and food baskets with fruit, the possibilities are limitless.