We’ve all been there at one point in our lives. We get stuck in a rut and start to feel like we’re not making the most of our lives. But making big changes can be daunting, and it’s often hard to know where to start.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 15 small lifestyle changes that can make a big difference to your wellbeing. From simple things like drinking more water and getting enough sleep, to slightly more challenging tasks like cutting down on screen time or spending more time outdoors, these changes can help you improve your life today.
1. Drink more water. It sounds so simple, but staying hydrated is essential for good health. Aim to drink eight glasses of water a day, and you’ll start to feel the benefits almost immediately.
2. Get enough sleep. Most of us need around eight hours of sleep a night, but it can be hard to get enough if we’re constantly busy. Make sure you prioritize your sleep and you’ll notice a difference in your energy levels and overall mood.
3. Cut down on screen time. We’re increasingly reliant on screens for work, leisure and communication, but too much screen time can be bad for our health. If you can, cut down on the amount of time you spend staring at screens each day, and make sure you take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest.
4. Spend more time outdoors. Being in nature has been shown to have a calming and de-stressing effect, so make sure you get outside into the fresh air every day. Even if it’s just for a short walk around the block, you’ll notice the difference.
5. Eat more vegetables. It’s no secret that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is good for our health, but it can be hard to make them a regular part of our diet. Try to include at least one serve of vegetables with every meal, and you’ll soon start to feel the benefits.
6. Exercise regularly. Exercise is not only good for our physical health, but also our mental wellbeing. Make sure you schedule in some time for exercise each week, and you’ll start to see an improvement in your mood and energy levels.
7. Spend time with loved ones. Whether it’s catching up with friends or spending time with family, socializing is important for our mental health. Make an effort to connect with the people you care about, and you’ll soon start to feel more content and fulfilled.
8. Do something you enjoy every day. It’s important to make time for activities that make us happy and help us relax. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, playing sports or gardening, find something that brings you joy and make sure you do it every day.
9. Volunteer your time. Giving back to the community can be a great way to improve your mental wellbeing, as it can help you feel more connected and purposeful. If you can, find a cause you’re passionate about and volunteer your time to help make a difference.
10. Meditate or do some form of relaxation. Stress is a common issue in today’s society, but there are things we can do to help manage it. Meditation and relaxation techniques can be extremely effective in reducing stress levels, so make sure you take some time out each day to unwind and de-stress.
11. Spend less time on social media. Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. If you’re finding yourself getting overwhelmed by social media, try spending less time on it each day, or take a break from it altogether.
12. Quit smoking. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. It’s not easy, but there are plenty of resources available to help you give up smoking for good.
13. Limit your alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol can be enjoyable, but it’s important to drink in moderation. If you’re finding that you’re drinking more than you’d like, try setting some limits for yourself and sticking to them.
14. Avoid processed foods. Processed foods are often high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats, so it’s best to avoid them where possible. focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods instead, and your health will thank you for it.
15. Practice gratitude. Gratitude has been shown to have a number of benefits for our mental wellbeing, so make sure you take some time each day to focus on the things you’re grateful for. You may be surprised at how much better you feel as a result.
Making even small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on our mental wellbeing. By implementing some or all of the tips above, you can start to improve your life and feel happier and more content.