If I want to feel happier and more contentment, I try to increase positive emotions, engage in meaningful activities, meditate, and spend time with loved ones.

All of these ideas work pretty well, though there are also other aspects of well-being I don’t always consider.

For instance, I’m not the type of person who counts calories and watches what I eat. Frankly I can still eat about anything I want without it negatively affecting my appearance (though I think my metabolism is finally starting to slow now that I’m 28).

Because of this I tend to disregard how my diet and related lifestyle impacts my mood and mental health. By no means do I eat unhealthy, I’m just not highly restricted.

However, over the past few months I have set some goals in this area and have now started to incorporate a more well-rounded diet. Coincidentally, I notice a positive difference in my energy level and attitude.

I went to seminar this past Wednesday and thanks to Dr. Lynn Johnson, I gained validation and greater insight into how our lifestyle influences our well-being. I would recommend signing-up for his newsletter for more information about living a happy and healthy life.

Here are a few suggestions discussed that may be helpful in living a healthier lifestyle.

Physical activity – Exercise has been shown time and time again to have benefits for mental and emotional health. Specifically, it can have similar effects as medication in decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

All that is needed to gain beneficial effects is 10 – 30 minutes a day, and can be as simple as going for a walk.

Sleep – Taking time to restore our body and mind is a serious matter. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night is a crucial factor in our ability to think clearly, be physically healthy, and cultivate emotional well-being.

If you have difficulty sleeping here are a few suggestions.

• Only going to sleep when tired
• Have some down time before sleeping
• Meditate briefly before bed
• Do something tedious and boring to help you relax before bed
• Wake up at the same time everyday
• Don’t use your bedroom for watching TV or other mentally stimulating activities

Nutrition – This is my area of weakness, but I’m slowly making progress. It’s been shown that the food and substances we ingest has a major impact on our emotional state. Consider eating a diet rich in vegetables, fish, complex carbs, and nuts. Decrease intake of red meat and of course alcohol and tobacco.

Consume Omega-3 oils and watch your intake of food that contains Omega-6 such as corn based products.

For greater emotional, mental, and physical health consider making changes to your lifestyle. The above suggestions will not only improve your healthy physically but will enhance your mood as well.

Photo by: lululemon athletica

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