Spring Cleaning Tips for Body and Mind
A clean environment is not only good for your physical health, research has shown that it’s also good for your mental. Clean, uncluttered spaces help reduce stress levels and ward off depression. So while you embark on spring cleaning your workplace and home, consider taking the same approach to caring for your body and mind.
Schedule Annual Check-Ups
While many have good intentions of starting the year with a clean bill of health, spring is a good time to catch up. Schedule any outstanding annual check-ups with your primary care physician or eye doctor and schedule any biannual dental cleanings.
Recommit to Eating a Healthier Diet
Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant in spring months so commit to adding more to your diet! The fiber found in plant foods, supports the body’s natural cleansing, and fresh produce is filled with natural vitamins and nutrients. Plant foods like nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, fruit, and vegetables also contain antioxidants and help support our gut biome. As you eat healthier, strive to limit your intake of ultra processed packaged foods such as cookies, candy, crackers, baked goods, and fried foods. These foods are full of saturated fat, sodium, sugar, and preservatives while being devoid of nutritional value.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration affects all bodily functions, including mental performance. A water loss of just 1% to 2% can impair cognitive function! Aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water, daily, and increase your water intake based on activity level, heat, and humidity.
Move Your Body
Believe it or not, consistently exercising for as little as 11 minutes per day has numerous health benefits, including increasing your life span. Whether you’re taking a brisk walk, a quick jog, a HIIT workout, swimming, or engaging in another aerobic activity, commit to moving your body for a minimum of 11 minutes every day.
Sleep Well
Sleep is essential for overall health. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night. Consider creating a relaxing bedtime routine, free of screen time, and aim to get in bed the same time each night.