Our Top 5 Tips for Staying Healthy and Well This Spring

Spring has sprung and for many, this changing of the seasons brings with it fresh
inspiration to begin anew and make health and wellness a top priority.
While this is an excellent intention, there are unfortunately more than a few
unscrupulous businesses out there trying to make a buck off people who just want to
take care of their health. From high-dollar weight loss programs to bank-breaking
supplements and powders, the idea seems to be that fitness is inextricably tied to
finances.
Yet nothing could be further from the truth. And that’s why we’re sharing our top 5 back-
to-basics tips for staying healthy and well this spring.

1. Up Your Fruit and Veggie Intake
   It doesn’t get more basic than this, but increasing the number of fruits and veggies you
   eat will do more for your health than swallowing a handful of supplements.
   Why?
   Because the vitamins and minerals your body needs are at their most potent when
   consumed in their original form. So, try to eat the rainbow every day, consuming as
   many veggies and fruits as possible in a variety of colors.
2. Get Good Rest
   We all know sleep is important, but did you know it also keeps you healthy? According
   to the CDC, a lack of sleep puts you at an increased risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes,
   and heart disease.
   The average adult should shoot for seven hours of sleep each night. For tips on how to
   get better rest, visit this page from the CDC website.
3. Exercise Regularly
   Moving your body is vital for good health, but too many of us groan at the idea of joining
   a gym. The key to sticking with a fitness routine is to find something you love to do.
   Whether that is hiking, Pilates, barre, or pickleball, engaging in an activity you enjoy will
   prevent workouts from feeling like a chore.
   And don’t discount the value of walking. Sure, it may not be the trendiest form of
   exercise, but it is one of the most effective at increasing energy, improving blood flow,
   and lowering blood pressure. And the best part? It doesn’t cost a dime.
4. Prioritize Your Mental Health
   We’re huge proponents of self-care but, too often, self-care is used as a treatment for
   stress, when the priority should be reducing the stressors in your life. Whether it’s finding a better work/life balance or reducing the number of commitments outside of the office, reducing stress will have a profound impact on your mental health.

5. Drink Your Water
   It’s so simple yet so important. Water doesn’t just keep you hydrated—it also lubricates
   and cushions your joints, aids in the flushing of waste through perspiration and potty
   breaks, and helps you maintain a healthy body weight. According to the Mayo Clinic,
   men should try to consume 15.5 cups of water each and women should shoot for 11.5
   cups (but this total can vary depending on activity levels and if you are pregnant or
   breastfeeding, so always check with your doctor.)
   Here’s to making the act of getting healthy less complicated this spring!

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References
Harvard University
CDC – Sleep
CDC – Physical Activity
Harvard University – Walking
Mayo Clinic – Stress
Mayo Clinic – Water