What’s the secret to creating a happy healthy life? Well that’s the million dollar question. I read about health, wellness, Ayurveda and yoga a lot! I follow blogs, read posts, books and most of all I use my personal experience and wisdom gained from watching my incredible clients transform their lives. What I’ve found is that it’s the little choices you make every day that matter the most. I discovered that happy, healthy people have a few things in common and if you learn to apply these habits in your own life, there’s a good chance you’ll find your vibrant living too.
9 Habits of Happy Healthy People
Sound Sleep – We have talked a lot about sleep being one of the 3 pillars of health in Ayurveda and for good reason. Adequate rest is vital for good health and well-being. Lack of sleep can make you cranky, foggy mentally, weakens your immune system and causes weight gain. Seven to eight hours of sleep is ideal, and try to go to bed and wake at the same time every day. For more on sleep click here.
Stay Hydrated – Simple and effective drinking plenty of water boosts energy, removes toxins, improves skin health, promotes weight loss, lightens your mood and more.
Express Gratitude – This is a big one! People who are grateful for what they have are better able to cope with stress, are more positive, and are in better physical health. The best way to harness the power of gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal or list, where you actively write down exactly what you’re grateful for each day.
Eat Well – Ayurveda is rooted in the wisdom of nature and the belief that Food is Medicine. Eat real organic, non-processed food but indulge in dark chocolate as needed. Real food is medicine and will change your life, but an as Kathryn Budig says “an awesome, decadent treat from time to time is irreplaceable and fantastic for the soul.”
Exercise Daily – It goes without saying that finding daily movement you love is a huge part of creating a healthy happy lifestyle. Shoot for at least 30 minutes a day. It could be a simple walk with your dog or a few sun salutations.
Laugh – Laughter is the best medicine, ever hear that one? I’ll never forget a Simpson’s episode when Marge is taking bowling lesson and gets a small crush on her bowling guru. He tells her “laugh out loud Marge, you’ll lose weight”. Research shows that laughter has a positive effect on your physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Enjoy life and don’t hesitate to laugh out loud.
Choose Your Tribe with Care – Surround yourself with people who make you feel good. We all have enough drama and stress in our lives and that is a huge drain on our energy and health. Your tribe – the friends, partners and family you spend your time with – are critical to your health and happiness. Invest your time and energy in the positive peeps is your circle.
Make Self Care a Priority – Take time for yourself. It’s easy to get wrapped up in to-do lists and projects, but true happiness lies in the small, simple supportive things you do for you like reading a book, eating your favorite food, or taking a long baths. Do at least one thing for yourself every week that brings you joy and renews to your Spirit.
Meditate – Creating a daily mediation practice has far reaching effects on health and happiness. Studies show meditation increases immunity, balances emotions, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and eases digestive disorders. Check out my blog on mediation if you need tips on how to start a practice.
Wishing You Vibrant Living!
Kate