THE 3 ASPECTS TO CONSIDER TO START A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Starting to follow a healthy lifestyle is an important step towards overall well-being and happiness . It can be one of the good resolutions after the summer holidays or after the Christmas holidays, whenever you decide to start it is important to take some suggestions into consideration.
BENEFITS OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Healthy lifestyle means living a satisfying and healthy life at 360 degrees : a balance between nutrition , physical activity and mental well-being is fundamental. A healthy lifestyle is important because:
- reduces the risk of diseases
- improves physical and mental health
- it can lead to greater happiness and well-being
- can help towards better aging
HOW TO START
Here are some tips to get you started:
1) A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE STARTS FROM NUTRITION
A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Start by making small changes in your diet , such as increasing your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Try to reduce your intake of processed foods , which are high in sugar and saturated fat.
Consuming refined sugars is bad for you , so it is important to eat products with low sugar content , especially at breakfast where sugars can cause a blood sugar spike. Choose natural, healthy foods for breakfast and a healthy diet such as chocolate hazelnut spread or peanut butter .
Pay attention to portion sizes and try to eat slowly, to allow your brain to recognize when you are full.
Maintain an adequate intake of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats , such as those found in vegetable oils, nuts and fish. Drink plenty of water during the day and limit the consumption of sugary or alcoholic drinks . Another good practice is to keep a food diary to monitor your progress and become aware of any unhealthy eating habits.
Always read the labels! Many times junk products are advertised as healthy products. Don't be fooled and actually read what's in them.
Be careful though! Healthy lifestyle DOES NOT mean strict diet. It's not about eating little and without taste, but eating the right quantities with taste, choosing more natural and less processed products.
2) CONTINUE WITH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Exercise is essential for a healthy body and a vigorous mind. Find a physical activity that you enjoy, so you can make it part of your daily routine. You could try taking a 30-minute walk every day, cycling, swimming , practicing yoga, or joining a gym. Find the sport you like most and try to do physical activity even if you have little time available.The goal is to be consistent and gradually increase the duration and intensity of physical activity. Involving friends or family can make exercise more fun and motivating.
3) THERE IS NO HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WITHOUT MENTAL WELL-BEING
Mental well-being is just as important as body care. Take time every day to relax and manage stress . Meditation, yoga , deep breathing, and muscle relaxation are effective techniques for reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.
Try to get sufficient, quality sleep. Rest is essential to allow the body and mind to regenerate and better face daily challenges.
Find activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, such as reading, listening to music, painting, or gardening. Time spent with friends and family can also be a great way to improve your mood and mental wellbeing, reducing stress and anxiety.
YOU CAN DO EVERYTHING WITH BALANCE AND CONSISTENCY
A healthy lifestyle is a combination of positive daily choices . However, it is essential to find a balance between health and pleasure . Don't deprive yourself of everything you love, but learn to moderate yourself and indulge with awareness and moderation.
Set realistic and sustainable goals. Gradual change is more likely to stick over time than drastic, hard-to-sustain changes.
Seek support from friends, family or health professionals. Having someone to share your goals and progress with can increase your chances of success.
We believe that a balanced and coherent lifestyle is based on relationships . 80% of the time we eat healthy and nutritious dishes, we do physical activity, 20% we "go wild", that is, we eat what we feel like eating without thinking about the quantities of carbohydrates or fats, we rely on pleasure, which can be an evening with friends, an aperitif, a heavier dessert, or simply doing nothing. 
IT DOES NOT CHANGE FROM TODAY TO TOMORROW, BUT OVER TIME
Finally, be patient with yourself. Changing habits takes time and dedication . Don't be discouraged if you make mistakes or encounter challenges along the way. Every small step towards a healthier lifestyle is a significant progress.
In conclusion, adopting a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular exercise and mental well-being is an investment in the future. Good health and a balanced mind are the foundation for a fuller and more satisfying life. Start with small, concrete steps, and enjoy the journey to a healthier, happier you.
