Physical wellness is a critical piece of our overall wellness foundation. It can be defined as promoting proper care of our bodies for optimal health and functioning, and just like overall wellness, it can be multidimensional. There are three major foundational block for our physical wellness function: nutrition, exercise, and sleep/rest.
NUTRITION
Nutrition provides us with the fuel we need to engage in the game of life. Think of your body as an automobile. Just like a car, we need proper maintenance and care to keep ourselves running. Our bodies are designed to last for a long time and to perform well throughout our lives.
Without proper nutrition, your body is unable to run smoothly and efficiently. We need nutrients for growth, maintenance, repair, and longevity.
Aside from the most important nutrients, water, there are five additional categories to consider: carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. You can grab my free report HERE to get more in-depth with these nutrients.
Nutrition Tip: Smoothies are one of the best ways to make sure you are getting the nutrients you need. My rule of thumb is green or red. Incorporate fresh greens, such as kale, chard, and spinach, with fresh fruits, milk and yogurt. These nutrients will be easily digested by your body—not chewing required!
EXERCISE
Our bodies are built to move. Movement is vital to prevent you from becoming stiff. It helps strengthn your muscles, increase muscle mass, and release endorphins. Exercise can also increase energy, help with energy, improve memory, increase happiness, and improve sleep! The benefits of movement are endless.
Some doctors are now even promoting the idea of exercise being medicine. Exercise is one of the top modifiable risk factors for chronic disease, meaning by increasing your exercise, you can reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
Exercise Tip: You only need to walk for 30-45 minutes per day, three times a week, to see these benefits. Take a lap around the office once every hour. Schedule in an afternoon walk after dinner. Wake up before work and take your dog for a walk. There are so many ways to fit exercise into your routine. As always, be sure to consult with your physician before starting any exercise program.
SLEEP AND REST
There is a difference between sleep and rest. Sleep is when you close your eyes, the lights are out, and your brain is relaxing. However, sometimes just because we sleep and wake up when daylight returns doesn’t mean we ‘rested’. You need rest because it allows your mind and body to relax. Resting helps your body heal and rejuvenate, slowing down aging and repairing cells.
Sleep and Rest Tip: Stick to a sleep schedule of the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends. This helps to regulate your body’s clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Be open-minded to trying out new tips, suggestions, and techniques that may be new to you. These tips may prove to be helpful in your overall health goals. Get more in-depth with my “A New You Emerges” program HERE.
To Your Wellness
P.S. For more info on Physical Wellness Grab yourself a copy of The Wellnesses Lifestyle HERE.
Wanda
Have a Blessed and Wellness Day
