“The greatest wealth is health.”

Health is one of the most important facets in our lives.  Regardless of how savvy one is in marketing, health should be a top priority.  Health can sometimes take the back burner due to demanding work schedules, spending quality time with friends and family and fitting in extra curricular activities. 

Josh Billings once said: “Health is like money, we never have a true idea of its value until we lose it.”  The following are some of the critical elements to maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

1. Sleep

According to a study conducted by The  National Sleep Foundation (NSF), "40 million Americans suffer from over 70 different sleep disorders and 60 percent of adults report having sleep problems a few nights a week or more."  Most should sleep between 6-10 hours per night.   Lack of sleep can not only directly impact job performance, but can also attribute to depression, anxiety, alcohol use, obesity and cardiovascular risks such as strokes.

If you currently have trouble sleeping or would like to improve your sleep experience, consider the following.  Remove electronics such as laptops and televisions from the bedroom.  Keep your bedroom cool and dark. Try to unwind before counting sheep with a hot bath, relaxing music or chamomile tea.  Medical researchers recommend avoiding self-medication or the use of alcohol to get shut-eye and instead suggest discussing sleep problems with doctors.

2. Exercise

“Those who think they have no time for exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”  ~Edward Stanley 

Not only does exercise burn calories and promote weight loss, it also keeps your mind and body working at its best.  You will also have more energy and experience higher levels of focus and concentration when you participate in regular exercise.  Doctors have also found that exercise can help relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress. 

Experiment with different exercise routines.  Whether it be hiking, swimming, jogging, bike riding, zumba lessons, kick boxing, weight lifting or yoga; find out what you enjoy and make it a regular routine.  Exercise can also be more enjoyable when done with others.  Perhaps you can team up with colleagues at work for a walk around the block on some lunch hours.  The fresh air wouldn't hurt either!

3. Nutrition

Just as your smartphone needs battery power to work, your body needs proper nutrients to thrive.  A healthy diet fuels your body and is as important as sleep and fitness.  Some doctors suggest a Mediterranean diet high in omega3's, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes.    Consume foods that are high in nutrients, minerals and vitamins for natural ways to increase your energy and focus.  Keeping a food diary can also help "remind" yourself of what you are eating, how often you are eating, what foods to eliminate, and what foods to add to your diet.  Enlisting the help of a dietician or nutritionist can also be very beneficial.

For more information on any of the topics listed above, please refer to the links below.


Sources:
Medical News Today
American Psychological Association
FitDay
Global Healing Center