Spring is a time for new beginnings and fresh starts, but with the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be challenging to find time to prioritize healthy habits. With the warmer weather and longer days, it's the perfect time to start taking care of yourself and making healthy choices a part of your daily routine. Here are some tips on how to manage busy lives and still eat healthy during spring:
1. Cook at home: Cooking at home is one of the easiest ways to eat healthier. Most fast food, and restaurant food is high in sodium. The recommended sodium daily is 2,300 mg (about 1 tsp of sable salt) and according to the CDC 90% of Americans 2 years and older consume too much sodium! When you cook at home you can control sodium, the ingredients, the portion sizes, and it's usually cheaper than eating out. Plus, it can be a fun activity to do with friends or family! Try finding a new recipe to make each week or meal prepping on the weekends to save time during the week. Need some inspiration? Check out these Low-Carb Sweet And Sour Cocktail Meatballs or this Spring Roll Salad With Sweet Peanut Dressing from our Recipe page.
2. Spend time in Nature: Spring is the perfect time to get outside and be active. Whether it's going for a walk or run, playing a sport, or doing outdoor yoga, there are plenty of ways to get out in nature and breathe in the fresh air. Not only does this help you stay active and burn calories, but it also improves your mood and reduces stress according to this research study.
3. Take 15-minute walking breaks: If you work at a desk all day, it's essential to take breaks and move around. Try taking a 15-minute walking break every hour or so to get your blood flowing and give your eyes a break from the screen.
4. Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk: Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential for staying hydrated and feeling your best. Drinking enough water can prevent dehydration according to the CDC. Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk, and make sure to refill it throughout the day. If you don’t like the taste of water or are struggling to drink enough water during the day, add a squeeze of Water Drops to enhance the taste!
5. Be mindful of sweet treats: Spring brings plenty of opportunities for sweet treats like Easter candy and desserts. While it's okay to indulge in moderation, it's essential to be mindful of how you feel after eating sugar. Consider baking with sugar-free sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit, and use our handy conversion chart calculator to measure them correctly.
Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help you eat healthier, feel better, and stay on track with your health goals. Remember, it's all about finding balance and making small, sustainable changes that work for you.
Let’s not forget the importance of your mental health. Here are a few ways to take care of your mental health this Spring:
6. Make time for self-care: It's essential to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Make time for activities that help you relax and destress, like reading, taking a bath, or meditating.
7. Prioritize sleep: Getting enough sleep is critical for your overall health and well-being. Try to establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down at night. Experts recommend 7-9 hours of sleep a night to avoid having health issues.
8. Practice gratitude: Gratitude has been linked to improved mood, lower stress levels, and better sleep. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're thankful for, and consider keeping a gratitude journal.
In conclusion, eating healthy and managing a busy life during spring may seem challenging, but with a few simple habits, you can make it a part of your daily routine. Cooking at home, getting outside, taking breaks to move, staying hydrated, being mindful of sweet treats, and prioritizing self-care, sleep, and gratitude can help you feel your best this season. Remember, it's all about finding balance and making small, sustainable changes that work for you.