When doing a simple online search, you’ll find that September holds monthly observances for many serious, life-threatening illnesses. Some of them include:
Pain Awareness Month
Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
National Better Breakfast Month
Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
What do all of these have in common? They’re all about your health and wellness. Some illnesses are not preventable, but having a well-balanced diet and a regular exercise regimen can greatly increase your overall health and immune system functionality. DP Air works closely with Aetna on a variety of ways to work on your physical and mental health, even offering discounts for participating in a free biometric wellness screening program and gift cards for completing an online health coaching program!
Here are some easy, quick tips that you can implement in everyday life that will have a massive impact on your overall health!
- Drink more water. Studies show you should drink at least 64oz of water per day, but that varies based on your body type, weight, and job expectations. If you’re working an outdoor job, definitely increase your water intake. Dehydration effects can get serious very quickly!
- Go for a brisk walk. Or, just walk more! Take the stairs instead of elevators, take a walk with pets in the morning, or hit the gym if you’re feeling up to it! It can be difficult to find motivation to get up and moving around, especially when it’s so warm outside, but your body WILL thank you.
- Endorphins – I know we hear all the time that working out makes you happier, and while that may not be true before and during the workout, your body most definitely is functioning better and reducing your stress levels long after you leave the gym. Try something new! Perhaps take a spin or Zumba class, or start working with a personal trainer if you don’t know where to start.
- I know this sounds like such a hippie thing to do, but there’s a reason why people who meditate and practice yoga seem so much calmer than the rest of us. Try finding a quiet, peaceful place where no one will bother you, and spend at least 5-10 minutes with your eyes closed, perhaps listening to peaceful music, and finding that blank white space in your mind to relieve the stress of life and sift through big decisions. Monitor your breathing, start to work in 4-count breaths to slow your heart rate and encourage deep breaths. I know it sounds a bit crazy, but I promise you that it works if you give it a real shot.
- Give someone you love a hug! Also sounds cheesy, but hugging someone you love is actually a proven stress-reliever for both parties, and it encourages the release of oxytocin, which helps to ward off depression. It will give a sense of companionship, and promote positive emotional connection. If you can, try to make it last at least 30 seconds for optimum hugging happiness <3
- Eat your greens and fruits! Vibrant fruits are packed with nutrients to help fight diseases and strengthen your immune system, and green salads are a quick and easy way to get a boost of vitamins and minerals!
- Write down a few things you are grateful for. When you’re down and frustrated, know that it is 100% okay to feel that way, but also try to think about the things in life that you’re thankful for. It’ll help pull you out of a funky mood, and give a better perspective on what we determine are the important things in life.
- Do something nice for someone. Whether it’s a compliment, a chore at home, or even a pay-it-forward at the coffee shop, making someone else smile and making their day a bit brighter will brighten your own.
There are many ways to improve your overall health and wellness, in your mind, body, and spirit, and all three are innately connected to one another. Take some time, even if it is only a few minutes per day, to really pay attention to how your mind and body are functioning, and how it can be improved in a few small steps that can have BIG payoffs.
