In my recent search for a new, yet used vehicle I began to think seriously about mileage. During the shopping process I ran into old vehicles with relatively little mileage. I also came across new vehicles with very high mileage.
As with vehicles, mileage also can relate to our own health. I began to wonder, how many miles have I put on my body over the years through wear and tear and just plain unhealthy choices I have made? What would my odometer read today?
Can you imagine if each of us had an odometer on our chest with rolling numbers, our health mileage so to say? Each time we downed a large doughnut or skipped the treadmill the numbers would roll higher and higher. Serious short term illnesses or even chronic diseases would send those odometer digits skyrocketing upward.
Now what if we could stop the upward climb, or even roll back those numbers by changing our lifestyle to a healthier one? Sure, trying to reverse the mileage on a vehicle is illegal, but the good news is that reversing our health mileage is doable and actually encouraged. The message, it’s not too late to reset your health odometer.
Here is a list of top keys to a long and healthy life compiled by top researchers in the field of health. Following these keys can help you stop and maybe even roll back your health miles.
Recognize and lower your stress levels. Everyone has fluctuating levels of stress. Remember stress is not what happens to you, it’s how you deal with it. Learning how to cope is the key. Find an outlet for your stress and solve the root of the problem.
Take a good look at your diet. Eating is one of the most pleasurable activities for many people. Unfortunately, the wrong choices over time can cause major problems. Stick to a diet high in fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean meat.
Exercise regularly. Any form of exercise is a benefit to your body. Find an exercise you enjoy and stick to a regular routine.
Attitude is everything. According to a recent study by the American Journal of Medicine, optimists live an average of seven years longer than pessimists.
Get plenty of sleep. The recommended amount of sleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation, is 8 hours a night. You may need more or less. Make sleep a top priority.
Avoid dangerous substances. Alcohol, tobacco and other harmful chemicals can wreak havoc on your body. Over time dangers increase as the body’s defense systems are weakened and it becomes more difficult for your body to recover from the abuse. Avoid these harmful substances at all costs.
Take personal responsibility for your health. Those who have enjoyed good health and then lost it know they are missing out on one of life’s greatest treasures. Don’t leave your health up to your physician, employer, family members or anyone else. Your health is solely your responsibility.