Support Us Button Widget
Sponsored Content

8 ways to kickstart your health journey this year

Integrating these small changes into your routine could help boost your overall well-being.

Sponsored by
a woman walks down a dirt road

We want to help you prioritize your health, Austin.

Photo via Unsplash

Table of Contents

Sometimes the smallest changes can have the largest impact. If you’re focusing on improving your overall well-being this year, we’re sharing some easy ways to help, no matter where you’re at on your health journey.

1. Get morning sunlight each day.

Why: It can help set your circadian rhythm, resulting in better sleep.
How: Add in a morning walk to start your day with gentle movement. Temps too low to get outside? A sun lamp can be a great option.

2. Incorporate some kind of physical activity each day.

Why: This can help prevent diseases like diabetes and cancer, along with improving quality of life and maintaining a healthy weight.
How: If you are a beginner, start with daily walks and increase the duration as you feel comfortable. When you are ready, you can add resistance training.

3. Prioritize your mental health.

Why: For one, doing so can help manage stress.
How: Dedicate time to understanding your stress levels, and consider incorporating mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or nature walks to your daily routine.

a gif featuring images from the 2023 hack your health conference

Connect with professionals at the three-day event to see how you can “hack your health.”

Photos provided by Q1 Productions; Gif created by ATXtoday

4. Attend a wellness conference

Learn cutting-edge health hacks from world-class speakers and surround yourself with like-minded supportive people at the Hack Your Health Conference, happening May 31 - June 2, right here in Austin, at The Palmer Event Center. The three-day event is packed with 60+ expert speakers, interactive activities, book signings, cooking demos, and more. Explore the schedule and grab tickets before they sell out.

5. Get enough quality sleep.

Why: Getting enough sleep gives your body and brain time to recover.
How: A few ways to improve sleep include eating your last meal for the day and minimizing exposure to screens at least three hours before bed.

6. Prioritize protein.

Why: It can help keep you satiated throughout the day.
How: Look for protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, meat, poultry, and lentils, and avoid processed foods + sugar (but, of course, everything in moderation). Follow the 80/20 rule to stay metabolically flexible. Keep your nutrition clean 80% of the time.

7. Pay attention to hydration.

Why: Water is essential for various bodily functions and can boost your energy levels.
How: Measure your intake. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should consume ~3.7 liters of fluids a day, and women should consume ~2.7 liters of fluids a day.

8. Engage in activities with other health-conscious people.

Why: By surrounding yourself with a community focusing on their health, you’ll be supported to continue your own health journey.
How: Try a new workout class, explore your local farmer’s market for fresh produce, or join a walking club.

Poll

What type of wellness do you want to focus on this year? Let us know.

More from ATXtoday
The services offered at local Austin Public Library branches are pretty useful in our books.
It may be Earth Day, but we’re offering tips and tools for supporting Austin’s thriving urban forest 365 days a year.
The winner of Austin FC’s Dream Starter competition started an online platform to help people navigate serious illness and end-of-life care for their loved ones.
The Soundtrack to the Future plan outlines improvements to the venue facades, curb appeal, and safety features.
Mayor Kirk Watson calls Downtown “Austin’s living room,” so we’re speculating on what that means for the rest of the city.
The Mermaid Capital of Texas, home to Texas State University, and riverside town is a great place to take a day trip — we’ve got all the spots to hit when you visit.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Austin, TX includes everything from building homes for people in need to fostering shelter animals.
The ABC Kite Fest — originally called the Kite Tournament — has been an Austin staple for almost a century, providing free fun for kids and adults alike.
The home to some of Austin’s most iconic venues, the district has generated $2.3 billion in impact in five years.
We’ve got some jokers in the Capital City, and these pranks from local businesses almost had us fooled.