Good mood is not just a fleeting state of mind; it’s a lifestyle! As someone who’s shuffled through countless articles, university courses, and more personal bouts of gloomy mornings than I’d care to admit, I can tell you, 2024 is the year we start paying attention to those overlooked health habits. These subtle, yet significant practices can transform your humdrum days into high-spirited ones. So buckle up, dear reader! This isn't going to be one of those dull, prescriptive health guides that makes you want to roll your eyes. We’re diving headfirst into the quirky, uncharted waters of joy and wellness.
With our busy lives, it’s easy to ignore the foundational yet seemingly insignificant habits that directly affect our moods. Let's face it. Who has the time? We’re all juggling deadlines, relationships, and finding time to enjoy a good Netflix binge. But here’s the twist: those overlooked health habits might just be the secret sauce to your happiness burger. I’m talking about things like maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough shut-eye, and even practicing mindfulness. More importantly, it’s about those nuances like keeping a gratitude journal or taking your dog for a walk just because they seem to know the secret to unconditional joy.
You'll be amazed to learn how something as mundane as the air quality in your room can invariably boost your mood. No kidding! That's why one of our sections dives deep into the impact of the environment on mood – and it's a real eye-opener. Imagine transforming your living space into a haven of happiness just by making a few tweaks here and there.
Another often neglected aspect is social interactions. Yes, your grandma was right. Cultivating meaningful relationships can substantially elevate your mood, and we have a whole section on why your social circle might be your golden ticket to bliss. And for all the digital nomads out there, don’t worry! We've got tips on how to leverage technology wisely without falling into the black hole of endless scrolling.
Let's get personal for a sec. As a university grad, I vividly remember the frantic cramming sessions fueled by energy drinks and little sleep. While that diploma is a source of pride, what didn’t make it to the resume was how those habits sabotaged my mood. Fast forward to now, embedding these overlooked health habits, like getting quality sleep and practicing gratitude, has made me—and I’m sure it will make you—a genuinely happier person.
So, are you ready to unlock the power of these transformative habits? Stick around; we’re diving deeper into seven specific habits you’ve probably been overlooking. From dietary adjustments to embracing nature and having a healthy screen time balance, we’re covering it all. Let’s make 2024 our happiest year yet!
1. Exercise
It sounds so cliche, but exercise is one of the most important health habits to start now if you want your mood in tip top shape. Exercise is like a flame that ignites your entire network of feel good hormones. Exercise releases a reaction in the body that increases serotonin, dopamine, adrenaline, and endorphins. All of these make you feel incredible in no time. Plus, exercise has been proven to help people fight off stress better, no matter what comes their way. The best kinds for preventing stress range from all forms of cardio, to yoga, to HIIT, and even Pilates if that’s your thing. Find whatever exercise works for you. Hey, even dancing in your living room for half an hour counts! Whatever you like, just do it, and your mood will increase by the tenfold each day.
2. Unprocessed Food
Let me give you a little secret, you guys. Processed food marketing is killing your health and your mood. All those products that tell you that you need them to be happy and healthy are doing nothing but emptying your wallets and ruining your mood. Say no to processed food, addictive sugars, and fats, and eat the real stuff. Let me just tell you, there’s nothing like a huge fresh tomato and avocado or a spoonful of raw coconut butter in a smoothie to perk up your mood fast. Raw, healthy foods are key to good mood health, and give you a killer figure. I’ll take that over calorie counting, anti-depressants, and diet pills, what about you?
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3. Social Life
Another important health habit you need to take care of is your social life! You need a healthy social life to prevent depression, loneliness, overeating due to loneliness or depression, and for helping you have fun. You also need to have a healthy social life. What does that mean? One that forgoes overdoing alcohol, a lack of rest, and unhealthy eating habits. Be sure to abide by your healthy diet, get plenty of rest, and nix the alcohol while you’re out having fun. Being with others is what makes social aspects so important for your health and mood, not the nasty booze or toxic food that comes with it.
4. Power up the Protein
Your brain and body both need protein to run at optimal levels. Never opt for cheap protein powders when looking for high quality protein though. Instead, be sure you use a raw form of protein whenever possible if using protein powder. Also, when it comes to whole foods, be sure you choose lean fish, organic poultry, pastured eggs, and organic, grass-fed beef if you eat it. If you choose vegetarian sources, opt for raw nuts and seeds, non GMO tofu and edamame, green peas, beans, and legumes. Getting enough protein is crucial to your mood. If you’re looking for grain sources, quinoa and oats are higher in protein than other sources on the market, and lower in insulin-spiking carbs. All forms of protein help boost your amino acid intake. This spurs a host of functions in your brain and metabolism to keep you feeling your best. Consume a little protein each time you eat for the best effects on your mood.
5. No Sugar
Sugar is one of the worst foods to eat for good mood health. It makes you incredibly happy, almost high at first, and then 30 minutes later, you have a huge drop of insulin levels. This makes you cranky, tired, and craving more sugar. Get rid of the sugar and you’ll likely see less depression, improved satiety at meals, fewer unhealthy cravings, and even better skin and weight.
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6. Choose Tea Please
Whenever you can, opt for tea over other caffeinated drinks. Tea is full of antioxidants that you won’t get elsewhere, and it has been linked to a more relaxed mood. My favorites for keeping me calm are green tea and herbal tea. I also like rooibos tea, a red tea which keeps your skin healthy and decreases skin problems.
7. Good Sleep
A night’s worth of good rest will change your health faster than almost anything else. Get at least 8-9 hours if you can, and see if you don’t feel on top of the world the next day. If you can’t sleep, try my natural tip and pop a melatonin supplement around 1-3 milligrams for two weeks to reset your natural sleep cycle. It helps you drift off quickly with no grogginess in the morning. Or, you can try a homeopathic supplement known as Calms Forte, which I also love.
All of these health habits can greatly improve your mood. I know they sound simple, but most people overlook these health habits and turn directly to antidepressants. These can do a number on your health in a negative way, so always choose the more natural route if possible. What health habits help keep your mind and body happy?
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