Healthy habits can protect you from the harmful effects of stress.
Here are 10 positive healthy habits to consider developing.
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Talk with family and friends.
A daily dose of friendship is great medicine. Call or write your friends and family to share your feelings, hopes, concerns, and joys.
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Engage in daily physical activity.
Regular physical activity relieves mental and physical tension, lowers your risk of depression, enhances mental functioning, and can be a great source of enjoyment. Try walking, swimming, biking, dancing, or any activity you enjoy every day.
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Accept the things you cannot change.
Never say, “I’m too old.” You can still learn new things, be productive, and work toward goals. Love and be loved, and help others.
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Remember to laugh!
Laughter makes you feel good. Don’t be afraid to laugh out loud at a joke, a funny movie or TV show, or a comic strip, even when you’re alone.
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Give up bad habits.
Too much alcohol, cigarettes, or caffeine can increase stress. If you smoke, decide to quit now.
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Slow down.
Try to “pace” instead of “race,” plan ahead, and allow enough time to get the most important things done.
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Get enough sleep.
Try to get six to eight hours of sleep each night. If you can’t sleep, take steps to help reduce stress and depression. Physical activity also may improve the quality of sleep.
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Get organized.
Use “to do” lists to help you focus on your most important tasks. Approach big tasks one step at a time. For example, start by organizing just one part of your life—your car, desk, kitchen, closet, or drawer—and then move onto another small step.
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Give back.
Volunteer your time or return a favor to a friend. Helping others helps you.
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Try not to worry.
The world won’t end if your grass isn’t mowed or your kitchen isn’t cleaned. You may need to do these things, but today might not be the right time.
For more information, please contact the Office of Health and Wellness Education at wellness@cabrini.edu or visit www.cabrini.edu/wellness.