When you think of Physical Wellness, what comes to mind? For most people, it’s exercise, and while that’s definitely part of physical wellness, there’s so much more! Physical Wellness also includes proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep. In this fast-paced world, most people are not fueling their bodies for brain health nor are they getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

“Healthy Living” to most people means both physical and mental health are in balance or are functioning well together in a person. In many instances, physical and mental health are closely linked, so that a change (good or bad) in one directly affects the other.

Sleep for Wellness

Sleep is an important part of physical wellness. If you aren’t getting enough sleep each night, you are more likely to feel stressed, anxious, low self-esteem, or even depressed. It becomes much harder to deal with the stressors of life if our brain has not had the chance to recharge. It is imperative that as you begin to think about your overall wellness that learn to prioritize sleep.

Wellness Tips

Try these tips to improve your physical wellness:
1. Move your body each day with gentle stretches.
2. Include 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (including strength training). That equals out to roughly 30 minutes 5 days per week.
3. Create a sleep routine. Turn off the screens/phones at least 1 hour before bed. Take a bath, read a book, lower the lights, and/or listen to soft music. Attempt to go to sleep and wake up at the same times each day.
3. Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables. Focus on whole foods while eliminating processed foods.
4. Drink enough water. In general the guideline is to drink half your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 150lbs, you would strive for 75oz of water.

Remember that you are in charge of your own wellness. You can learn to prioritize your physical wellness by being physically active, prioritizing sleep, and fueling your body for brain health.