When you've made the decision to live a healthier lifestyle, the sheer number of changes needed to overhaul your diet and fitness level can sometimes seem overwhelming. Making those changes in small increments can make the task more manageable. Whether you need a big change in the way you live your life, or you just want to make better choices and be healthier, taking small steps toward better health can have a large impact on your overall quality of living.
Clean Your Cupboards
If you've only just resolved to eat better, you may find that the food in your own pantry and refrigerator is your biggest downfall. When you're surrounded by sweet treats and fatty snacks, it's all too easy to indulge and make poor choices. Start your commitment to better health by cleaning our your pantry and refrigerator. Replace the old food with healthier, whole versions. Then, incorporate healthier food and better choices into your daily diet. Instead of cutting all sugar, fat and calories, make better choices -- like using applesauce in baking or reducing the amount of butter you use when you cook.
Buy a Pedometer
When taking steps to better health, actual steps may be the key to getting more physical activity every day. Purchase a pedometer to wear on a daily basis. Not only will a pedometer tell you how many steps you've taken each day, it can motivate you to reach a certain goal by taking 10,000 or more steps each day. With a pedometer, you may be more likely to park farther away from your building, take a stroll during your lunch break or trade the elevator for the stairs, all which can contribute to daily aerobic activity.
Reduce Stress
Elevated stress levels can contribute to a bevy of health problems, including heart attack and stroke, as well as day-to-day symptoms like headache and anxiety. Take time to reduce the amount of stress you have in your life by learning to say "no," and taking time for yourself. Harvard Medical School suggests taking time each day to breathe deeply and concentrate on feeling calm and lowering your blood pressure. Practice abdominal breathing on a daily basis by drawing air into your belly and pushing it out through pursed lips.
Get Screened
Too often, the only time a doctor is called is when there's a health problem. Preventive care, which means regular check-ups, health screenings and testing, can help catch health issues before they become large problems. The American Heart Association notes that about one-half of heart-related deaths are sudden and unexpected. Often, patients didn't even know there was a problem. If you want to improve your health, begin a partnership with your doctor for regular screenings and appointments to watch for potential problems and treat them as soon as they are detected.
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