Table of Contents
Introduction: The 7 Habits of Highly Healthy People
Have you ever noticed those few people who just seem to radiate health and vitality? They have a natural glow, boundless energy, and rarely get sick. While good genetics certainly play a role, the truth is that most of these highly healthy people have cultivated specific daily habits that support their well-being. If you want to join their ranks, adopting these 7 habits is a great place to start.
Habit 1: Prioritizing Quality Sleep
You’ve heard it before – getting enough sleep is crucial for good health. Highly healthy people understand this and have made high-quality sleep a non-negotiable priority. They aim for 7-9 hours per night and stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Their bedrooms are cool, dark, quiet sanctuaries optimized for rest. They avoid screens for 1-2 hours before bedtime and have a relaxing pre-bed routine like light stretching or reading. Healthy sleep allows their bodies and minds to fully recharge each night.
Habit 2: Staying Properly Hydrated
Water is life’s most essential nutrient, yet so many people live in a chronic state of dehydration. Not highly healthy people – they are constantly sipping water throughout the day. They carry reusable water bottles with them and drink water with every meal and snack. The recommended daily water intake is at least half your body weight in ounces. For a 150-pound person, that’s 75 oz or about 9 cups. Proper hydration supports every system in the body and keeps energy levels high.
Habit 3: Eating a Nutrient-Dense Diet
You are what you eat, as the saying goes. Highly healthy people understand that the foods they put into their bodies have a profound impact on how they look and feel. Their diets are rich in whole, minimally-processed foods like:
- Fruits and vegetables of all colors
- Lean proteins like fish, poultry, eggs, and legumes
- Healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil
- Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats
They limit their intake of highly-processed foods, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and empty calories. Nutrient-dense diets provide energy, promote healthy weight, and reduce disease risk.
Habit 4: Exercising Regularly
Physical activity is one of the pillars of good health. Highly healthy people build movement into their daily routines through activities they enjoy. Some go for brisk daily walks, while others cycle, swim laps, take exercise classes, or play recreational sports. They aim for at least 30-60 minutes of moderate cardio exercise most days. They also incorporate 2-3 strength training sessions each week to build lean muscle mass and boost metabolism. Exercise reduces disease risk, strengthens the body, and boosts mood.
Habit 5: Managing Stress Effectively
While a little short-term stress is normal, chronic stress takes an enormous toll, both mentally and physically. Highly healthy people have effective strategies to keep stress in check, like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and pursuing hobbies they’re passionate about. They set boundaries, practice self-care, and don’t over commit themselves. When stressful situations arise, they have healthy coping mechanisms like talking to a friend or going for a walk in nature. Lowering stress promotes emotional well-being and prevents a host of stress-related health issues.
Habit 6: Cultivating a Positive Mindset
It’s been said that health is wealth, and highly healthy people have cultivated an abundance mindset focused on gratitude and growth. They don’t let setbacks or negative thoughts derail them, but view challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. They surround themselves with positive people, read uplifting books, and do activities that nourish their mental and emotional well-being. A positive mindset lowers stress, improves resilience, and allows the body’s natural healing capabilities to thrive.
Habit 7: Getting Preventative Care
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Highly healthy people take a proactive approach by getting recommended health screenings and preventative care like annual check-ups, cancer screenings, dental cleanings, eye exams, and vaccinations. They are also diligent about minimizing health risks through practices like using sunscreen, getting enough sleep, not smoking, and living an overall healthy lifestyle. By addressing small issues before they become bigger problems, they stay ahead of the game.
Making It Happen
While adopting all 7 of these habits may seem daunting, you don’t need to overhaul your entire life overnight. Start small by picking 1-2 habits to focus on at first, like drinking more water or taking a daily walk. Be patient and consistent, and celebrate small wins along the way.
The key is making health a true priority and building sustainable habits that work for your lifestyle. Reframe your mindset to view these habits as acts of self-care that will vastly improve your quality of life, not burdensome chores.
With commitment and the right mindset, you can absolutely cultivate all 7 of these habits. Your future self will feel energized, vibrant, and ready to take on the world!
