Making the best decisions for your body: The Journey to Self Care

Regular lifestyle choices define our health and overall wellbeing. Our conscious decisions often concern important things that matter to us, that is, finances, education for kids, and investments. When it comes to health and our body, we often follow a pattern that’s ingrained in our lifestyle. Do we care enough for our bodies? When was the last time you planned a regular checkup with your doctor or planned a meal from scratch? Our habits often define our choices. Here’s how you can make the best decisions for your body and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Figure out the options

Modern medicine has come a long way. At the same time, the world is now embracing alternative medicines, therapies, and conventional treatments that have been around for thousands of years. No matter the health concerns you are dealing with, knowing your options is extremely crucial. Placing your trust in a renowned doctor is the right thing to do, but don’t step back from seeking a second or third opinion. Treatments are refining with time, and the approach to healthcare is evolving too. Talk to your doctor about every possible way to care better for your body. Personalized care is the new norm.

Focus on the small fixes

A few lifestyle changes can be instrumental for your mind and body. Start by checking your meals and diet. Are you getting enough fiber? How often do you check your macros? Are you eating adequate protein in each meal? Do you exercise at least five times a week? What is your daily water intake? These may seem like small or minor aspects, but your diet and lifestyle choices matter for the body in the long run. If you are unsure of what to eat, how to eat, or need help improving your existing routine, talk to a healthcare expert or your primary healthcare physician.

Get enough exercise

Sedentary jobs, poor diet, and lack of exercise are key risk factors for lifestyle diseases. More people worldwide are being diagnosed with conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. These are avoidable diseases and are often related to our choices. Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to keep your body in check. Just 30 minutes of brisk walking or running can reduce the risk of heart diseases and type 2 diabetes. Obesity, which is often attributed as one of the leading causes of heart disease, has a lot to do with inadequate exercise.

Know your body

The human body is incredible in so many ways. Your body is capable of expressing possible health concerns through different symptoms and signs. Watch out for possible changes that are not “normal” in your regular life. When your periods are delayed every month, it could be a sign of PCOD or fibroids, although you may not have immediate pain. Similarly, if you have gained or lost considerable weight within a short time, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition. While your doctor will offer the support and guidance to get better, your first diagnostic tool is your own body.

Don’t miss on mental health

The talk around mental health is still limited. People often have reservations about seeing a psychotherapist or psychiatrist. Your mental health has bearings on your body and overall wellbeing. Stress is inevitable for many of us, but there is help around. By focusing on what makes you feel better and happy, you can do better with your body too. Your body and mind can heal and recover from the toughest blows if you make an effort in the right direction.