10 FREE ways to boost your health

8/21/2020

Everything is so expensive, and the pandemic hasn’t helped, has it? There are tons of dieting plans, workout apps, weight loss plans, and fitness apps available for the right price. I mean, I get it. I charge for coaching sessions too. Everyone has to do what they can to make a living, right? But what if I told you there were plenty of FREE ways to boost your health and your attitude? Seriously. There are lots of ways you can feel better without spending a dime. Let’s take a look at these free ways to boost your mental and physical health.

1. Step Into the Sunshine!

Sunshine is beneficial to the body in so many ways. Before you head out the door though, it is important to note that you can damage your skin by over exposure. Make sure to wear the appropriate amount of sunscreen for you and a hat is good too. Also, you don’t want to try to raise your Vitamin D levels during the hottest part of the day. But spending 15 or so minutes outside, even in the shade can trigger your body to make more Vitamin D. It brightens your mood, clears your mind, and gives you the overall mental boost you need. So, grab that lawn chair and get outside!

2. Take a Nap

Naps and sleeping are individual needs. Personally, I need about six hours of sleep each night to function during the day. You may need eight or more. Some people are energized and revitalized after an afternoon nap but for others it saps their strength. No matter what your individual needs are, getting adequate amounts of sleep for you means having more energy and can help prevent weight gain. Sleep is free - grab a few zzzzz and you’ll feel better.

3. One More Drink

I’m not kidding when I tell you water is your number one friend. It doesn’t have a taste – so you can’t not like it, right? Too many people have trained themselves to only be able to handle juices, sodas, and other non-water beverages. Drinking more water can help you think more clearly, help with weight loss, and keep you hydrated. Dehydration is hard on the body and makes you more susceptible to diseases as well as making it harder to recover. As a general rule, you should drink half your weight in ounces. So, if you weigh 140 pounds, you should drink roughly 70 ounces of water per day. If you are pregnant or working out in the heat, you need even more than that. Drink up – it’s free!

4. Take a Hike!

For real, even gentle hiking has tons of health benefits. It’s a relaxing form of exercise as long as you are not out rock jumping and you stay on the easy walking paths. Being out in nature is a great way to clear your mind of all the clutter. Connecting with nature is rewarding to your body and your soul. Your mind will be clearer and you’ll get those all-important steps in. It’s a 2-for-1 freebie!

5. Walk it Off.

Hiking isn’t for everyone – but it is rewarding and fun. Maybe you want to start smaller and easier. You can start with a walk around the block after dinner. Seriously, if you haven’t been walking at all, start small and gradually build out the distance. Something is better than nothing. It’s good for your digestive system, your cardiovascular health, your attitude, and like hiking it’s a great way to clear your mind. Walking is safe for almost everyone and you’re not likely to hurt yourself or strain a muscle as long as you don’t overdo it starting out. But the health benefits are plentiful.

6. Breathe In - Breathe Out

Good ole fresh air is so good for your body and soul. Hopefully, you don’t live in an area with high pollution. Most of us don’t have to go far to benefit from fresh air. Just go sit under the shade tree in your backyard. Walk around your yard and look at the flowers. Walking or sitting, fresh air is a great way to rejuvenate and reset your body and mind.

7. Laugh it Up!

There have been actual studies done on the benefits of laughing. Your body releases stress and tension when you are laughing. It also burns up some calories. But of course, you can’t just sit at your desk and laugh – or everyone else will get a good laugh! Reading a funny book or watching a funny movie can generate lots of healthy laughing for you. And that’s enough to help control blood pressure, release stress hormones, and increase both blood flow and oxygenation. So go ahead, laugh it up!

8. Hanging Out

Loneliness can eat away at you. It’s a horrible feeling and it can lead to depression and other mental issues. Hanging out with your friends (even casual ones) can help lighten your mood and make you feel better from the inside out. It’s a great way to counter loneliness and other negative emotions you may be dealing with.

9.Turn it Off

Our lives are governed by these little hand-held devices called smart phones. There really isn’t much we can’t do from the palm of our hands these days. In a single day I can answer work emails, check my emails, engage in social media, answer clients on a work app, do my banking, and shop for a car if I want. It is easy to be consumed by it. Turning it off and unplugging for as little as 30 minutes can make a huge difference in your stress level. Try it one time and you’ll likely be hooked. It can help you calm down, reduce stress, and give your soul a breather.

10. Boogie Down!

Yes, I know I’m showing my age – but you knew what “boogie” meant, right? Turn up your favorite music and dance away. It’s a great way to laugh and exercise away the day. You’ll reduce your stress level and get a lot of exercise while having a blast and a few laughs.

Need More Ideas or Encouragement? Contact ESAV!

These are just 10 ways to boost your health without spending a dime. They can help you manage blood pressure, reduce stress, increase circulation, and lots more. So pick one or two and give it a try. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. If you need more ideas or want to schedule a free health consult, shoot me an email at everystepsavictory@gmail.com. I can’t wait to connect and see what we can come up with together!

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