5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Physical Wellness

Introduction by Host: Dr. Gee

In this week of our Holistic Wellness Series, we are taking a close look at physical wellness. When we are not physically well, it affects all other areas of our lives. But what can we do to improve our physical wellness? What are the practical steps you can take to begin living a healthier life? Join us today and learn some simple ways to improve your physical health!

What is Physical Wellness?

Before we can begin talking about how to improve physical wellness, let’s establish what it is that we are improving. What is physical wellness? The definition I use comes from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration: “A healthy body. Good physical health habits. Nutrition, exercise, and appropriate health care. These make up the physical dimension of wellness.” Another definition, this one from the National Institute of Health, says, “Watching what you put into your body, how much activity you get, and your weight.”

1. Nutrition

This first aspect of physical health is your nutrition. Do you get the proper amount of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis? How much sugar do you have every day? What food do you have laying around your house right now? Do you have healthy snacks around, or is all your snack food unhealthy? The first practical step towards improving your nutrition is to change what food you have in your house. Whatever you have at home is what you end up eating.

2. Physical Activity

The second area we will look at is physical activity. This area is often associated with going to the gym, but that is not necessarily required. There are many free apps and videos on YouTube that you can utilize if you are not in a position to join a gym. As long as you are being physical active, you will improve this area of health.

3. Sleep

This is an area we all tend to struggle with. Sleeping well is very difficult for many of us. We all work hard and for a long time, and sleep is often sacrificed in order to achieve our other goals. This is not sustainable. Aim for 6-8 hours of sleep, even if you feel like you are too busy to achieve that. If you do not make time to sleep, your body will wear out until you collapse, and you will have to rest to get anyway. Also, research shows that people who get sleep are more efficient with their days than those people who work when they are not rested. In both cases, getting sleep will actually help you be more productive and efficient.

4. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs

When it comes to celebrating successes or unwinding at the end of the day, many people turn to alcohol, smoking, or other drugs. In this, moderation is key. There is nothing wrong with having a glass of wine at the end of a long day, but make sure you are doing it in moderation. Some people abuse prescribed drugs, and that is not healthy either. Try to find other ways to lessen discomfort, even minor pain like headaches, before running straight to painkillers. You may just be dehydrated or sleepy.

5. Preventative Medicine

We do not have to wait until you are sick or in the hospital. Make regular appointments with your physican and find out what you can do to prevent unnecessary health struggles. Do not make the mistake of assuming you are healthy now, so why bother going to a doctor. Take steps to stay healthy before you get to a crisis.

Summary

Physical health is a wide-reaching area of physical wellness. From physical activity to eating well to getting enough sleep, it can seem overwhelming to manage it all. But do not worry! Take the task of improving your health one day at a time, one step at time. Choose one area of physical wellness and make a change this week. Once that area is moving towards improvement, move onto the next one. You will be surprised at how quickly your physical health begins to thrive!

By Dr. Gee, Success and Holistic Wellness Advocate