8 ways to kickstart your health journey this year

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

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We want to help you prioritize your health, Austin.

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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.

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 .

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Rachel is based in Durham, NC and has a background in digital media (with bylines at USA Today and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution). She joined the 6AM City team as a Branded Copywriter in 2020. Rachel is now a Campaign Strategist on the Revenue Team. She loves spending her free time exploring local bookstores + coffee shops with her husband, playing with her cat Clementine, and is on an on-going quest to find the perfect margarita in the Triangle.
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