It is important for people of all age groups to take care of themselves and stay healthy. Teenagers often have a particularly difficult time staying healthy because of the stress that comes from school, work, extracurricular activities, family and friends. Frequently on the run, they face situations where they may make unhealthy choices due to peer pressure. As a teen, you can make modifications to your daily routine that will help you stay healthy.
Step 1
Turn off the television, computer, cell phone and any other electronics an hour before you go to sleep. This will help you wind down and eliminate nighttime distractions. Aim for eight hours of nightly sleep.
Step 2
Eat breakfast each morning. Breakfast literally means you "break" the fasting state your body is in, and it sets you up to make healthy food choices throughout the day. Choose a breakfast low in sugar and high in fiber to keep you feeling full the entire morning.
Step 3
Keep healthy snacks, like trail mix or a piece of fruit, in your backpack. This way, if you are away from home for long periods of time, you will not have to eat something unhealthy at a fast-food restaurant. Eating healthy snacks throughout the day will also help prevent you from eating a large, unhealthy dinner once you get home at night.
Step 4
Try to do 20 to 30 minutes or more of yoga and meditation each evening to help relieve stress in a healthy way. This will help you relax, calm the mind, and gain flexibility and strength in your body.
Step 5
Talk to a friend or family member that you trust and can confide in when you are feeling stressed or upset about something. Having someone -- without judgment -- you can talk to can help you work through your problems in a healthy way.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't feel pressured to do all these steps at once. Start with one, and eventually try to engage in more healthy behaviors as you grow accustomed to your healthy lifestyle.
References
- "The Teen Health Book"; Ralph Lopez; 2003
- TeensHealth: 5 Ideas for Better Sleep
