With the ever-present focus on "beach bodies" during the summer, a lot of people forget that the best way to improve your physique is to do it the healthy way (which isn't always the fastest way, and certainly not the easiest).
Here's just a few ways to not only improve your physical health but your mental health, as well.
1. Go outside.
In addition to working on your tan, being outside has a whole bunch of awesome benefits. To name a few, being outside increases vitamin D intake, increases oxygen to the brain (which is a natural way to wake up -- no caffeine required), and it has been proved that nature helps us de-stress and increase happiness, all naturally!
2. Visit a farmers' market.
While this also helps you fulfill the going outside goal, farmers markets are also great places find fresh food. Farmers markets have all locally grown food, no preservatives or weird chemicals you can't pronounce. Additionally, while at a market, the farmers can give you some great ideas for preparing food that you never would've thought to buy at a grocery store (like kohlrabi, which can be eaten completely raw-- fun fact!)
3. Switch up your workout.
Try setting some new goals that are easy to reach, doable, and fun! You can also just do little things that can make a huge difference. Doing 25 jumping jacks a day has been shown to decrease stress, increase endurance, and help with your overall health! Also, utilize your friends! Use your friends to motivate you and vice versa.
4. Stretch.
Stretching has so many health benefits. While not being difficult, it helps with blood flow, flexibility, muscle soreness, the list goes on and on.
5. Sleep Better.
Silence your phone at night, don't eat right before bed, and try to avoid falling asleep to a TV or phone screen. Ease your body into sleep, and avoid things that cause your brain to work harder than it needs to (like staring at a bright screen). You'll be surprised what a real good night's sleep will do for you.
6. Practice relaxing.
Take a few minutes every day to take a few deep breaths and relax. Allow your body to settle down naturally.
7. Remember to de-stress.
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Remember that your mental health and physical health are what is permanent and lasting, while that beach body is not. Take care of yourself first, and you'll be surprised how quickly you'll feel better about yourself . You may end up with something better than a season-long beach body.
