3 Unexpected Ways to Boost Your Health
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We all know the essentials for good health: eat your veggies, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. While these are certainly the foundations of a healthy lifestyle, it might surprise you to find that some other small steps can also help boost your health.
Spend time in nature.
Scientific studies cited in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that spending time in nature is associated with reduced stress, improved cognitive function, brain activity, mental health, blood pressure, physical activity, and sleep. In one study, individuals were randomly assigned to walk for 50 minutes in either a nature environment or an urban environment. The nature group experienced benefits such as decreased anxiety and rumination and improvements in working memory. Time in nature has also been linked to reductions in depression and feelings of hostility. Another study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that visiting or exercising in green space at least once a week for 30 minutes is associated with lower rates of hypertension (high blood pressure). Individuals who spend time in green spaces at least 3 times per week are also less likely to use blood pressure medications.
As far as health interventions go, spending time in nature is relatively inexpensive and easy to implement. Go on a hike through the forest, take a walk in the park, or simply sit in your backyard and listen to the birds.
Get creative.
Engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, or playing music can reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and promote relaxation. The relationship between creativity and happiness is a two-way street. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that not only are happy people more creative, creativity is also conducive to well-being.
While children are encouraged to play and draw, we tend to spend less time on creative hobbies as we get older. Foster your creativity. Take an art class, start a journal, or simply doodle in a notebook.
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Cultivate gratitude.
Practicing gratitude and focusing on the positive aspects of your life can have powerful health benefits, boosting mood, reducing stress, and even improving your physical health. Studies have shown that individuals who experience more gratitude have lower levels of depression. The American Heart Association also promotes gratitude for its health benefits.
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A gratitude practice only takes a few minutes a day. You can try keeping a gratitude journal, expressing appreciation to your loved ones, or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on the good things in your life. Here are a few prompts to get you started:
What is one good thing that happened today?
What is one thing I have that I can be thankful for? This may be something big, like a vacation, but it can also be something small, like a cozy sweater.
Who is someone in my life that I am grateful for?
These are just a few examples of how small changes can impact your health. The key to improving your health is to find what works best for you and to make sustainable changes that you can enjoy.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.