Are we really too busy? Whether we work a 9-5 or just have a busy weekly schedule, being too busy should never be a reason to neglect our health and wellbeing. It is a common practice among Jamaicans to grab a bite at the corner shop or catch a 5 on the lunch break, completely ignoring the importance of what it means to our bodies to have healthy meals and get adequate rest. While we seek the most convenient approach to get through hectic days, these practices can be an initial trigger for chronic illnesses and long-term conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and the list goes on. However, taking care of our health can be simpler than we imagine, so let’s discuss some simple habits that we can adopt to ensure that we are on the path to good health. The best part is, a drastic change is not required all at once; let’s take it one step at a time by:
Opting for healthy meal options: Being intentional about what goes into our bodies is crucial; choosing a warm cooked meal is always better than a sugary snack. But if a snack is necessary, checking labels and prioritizing low-carb and low-sugar options is the way to go. Additionally, we want to ensure that we are eating fruits and vegetables. You cannot go wrong with a daily dose of fruits and some veggies as they are a good source of vitamins and minerals needed for a well-functioning body. Since fruits and vegetables are low in fat, sugar, and salt, they essentially lower our chances of developing several health issues. Therefore, having a salad or a smoothie is a healthy choice compared to food choices that are high in sugar and low in nutrition. "An apple a day" may just keep the doctor away.
Hydrating: What does it mean to be hydrated? In the simplest way, it means keeping your body supplied with a sufficient water level. Yes, you read correctly, water not juice. On average, four to eight cups of water are usually recommended per day. Water has endless benefits; it helps us to flush toxins from our body, it is a great energy boost, and it helps to regulate our body temperature. We live in a tropical country; needless to say, hydration is key. A convenient way to remind ourselves to stay hydrated is by carrying a reusable water bottle suitable for any occasion.
Maintaining a sleep schedule: Though it may not seem important, having an internal clock is a great way to get adequate rest. This benefits our physical and mental health by helping with stress levels and improving our focus during the day. And for those of us who are always in a bad mood, a routine sleep schedule may just be the thing for you. Getting enough rest is just as important as any part of our wellness, so instead of “ketching a 5” how about we catch 8 hours.
Staying active: Staying active may be the easiest of all; simple activities such as a walk in the park, jogging or engaging in physical activities such as sports help to keep our muscles alive and set us up for a longer and healthier life. While we practice these healthy habits, we must keep in mind that “our health is our wealth” so be disciplined and intentional about living a healthier life because we only as busy as we want to be.