It’s that time during the semester when everything is starting to catch up with us. Whether we over-exerted ourselves during Spring Break or are drowning in mid-semester work, we have been burning the candle at both ends, and it is time for a break. With all the stress of midterms, colds going around, and a serious lack of sleep, I bet you’re not feeling your best. So, let’s take a little bit of time for ourselves and use these 10 easy ways to feel healthier in one day. They’re quick, easy, and guaranteed to make you a healthier you in a single day.
1. Drink at least 1 cup of green tea (or, if you’re like me, have 3 or 4… or 5). Green tea tastes delicious and is believed to help speed up your metabolism. The antioxidants are great for your skin and help get rid of free radicals too.
2. Drink ice water instead of soda, juice, etc. Not only is ice water much more refreshing than regular water, but it causes your body to burn calories to keep your body temperature up. Get those 8 glasses a day to burn you a few more calories.
3. Swap the chips for pretzels. Pretzels have less fat, less calories, and are more filling, while still satisfying your salty tastes.
4. Dying for that sandwich? Get it on whole grain or wheat bread instead of white. It’s just plain better for you. Plus, the whole grains keep you fuller longer. And they’re delicious.
5. Try dipping your veggies into hummus instead of salad dressing. Hummus is thick, flavorful, and delicious. It goes well with everything. Yum.
6. Craving dessert? Grab a small cup of low fat frozen yogurt with fruit. Just as delicious as ice cream, but much better for you. Plus, sneaking in a serving of fruit? Bonus!
7. Spend at least 30 minutes working out. Sacrificing a half hour of your time to physical activity is hardly a sacrifice. Getting your blood pumping helps you feel less restless, helps with learning and memory, and is good for you. I don’t know about you, but if I don’t find at least a little time to jump around or go for a run, I go crazy.
8. Take the stairs. I have given up using elevators completely unless I have no other choice. I cannot even tell you how much better I feel about myself when I walk that extra little distance.
9. If you’re sleepy, take a 20-minute power nap. Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your body. So step up your productivity and get some extra zzz’s tonight!
10. Stretch. Stretching, practicing yoga, whatever you want to do, it is amazing. Building strength and flexibility while letting you take a little bit of your day to relax and meditate is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely going to make a habit out of these 10 little things. I can’t wait to feel healthier, and I hope you do, too.
Photo Sources:
http://justglasssite.com/glass-pics/ice-water-1.jpg
http://www.articlesweb.org/blog/wp-content/gallery/yoga-therapy/yoga-therapy-15.jpg
http://perfectformuladiet.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/hummus-and-veggies_opt.jpg