How Improving Your Mental Health Can Improve Your Overall Health
The Mind and Body Work Together
Most know that good mental health is vital to your happiness, but it also plays an important part in your physical health, as well. Neglecting your mental health can lead to heart disease, higher blood pressure, chronic fatigue, and increased sensitivity to aches and pains. With a healthy mindset you’ll be more equipped to make healthy choices and fight off diseases.
Here are three easy ways that you can work to improve your mental health and overall health at the same time:
1. Exercise regularly.
Exercising can release endorphins and serotonin, two feel-good brain chemicals that can ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercising frequently can help keep you in a positive state of mind while also keeping you fit. Planning times to workout between work, school, or any other daily obligations will keep you on a routine and give you a healthy outlet to look forward to during your week.
2. Eat a healthy diet.
Never skip meals! Instead, fill your body with healthy fats, carbs, and proteins. Fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains can increase brain functions and contribute to a healthy diet. Searching for recipes that you can easily make at home, or setting up a meal plan are two ways that you can keep yourself on track. Avoid highly processed and saturated foods, as they have been linked to increased depression and anxiety.
3. Maintain a regular and full sleep schedule.
When we sleep, we allow our mind and body to fully unload from the day and relax. Depriving your body of sleep can create brain fog and leave you sluggish throughout the day. A minimum of seven hours of sleep is suggested for most adults. Setting reminders on your phone to keep yourself on a stricter sleep schedule will help your body get used to falling asleep at certain times. To ensure an easier night’s sleep, try to cut off caffeine and sugars earlier in the day.
At Orthopaedic Specialty Group, we offer a wide variety of treatments to help our patients. Contact us today to schedule your appointment (203) 337-2600!