5 Healthy Habits to Improve Your Outset

This whole piece is going to sound like a bit fat cliche, because the sheer number of people out that that say a healthy body = healthy mind is ridiculous. But I'm one of them. Honestly. It's true. So I'm here to share my favourite healthy habits that always manage to lift my mood.

1. Make your bed.

Not quite sure if this fits into the stereotypical view of "health", but it's amazing how much impact a well made bed can have. Not only does it reduce the likelihood of going back to sleep, but it also transforms the appearance of your room. And I rarely do anything fancy with my bed. We're just talking a smooth duvet. 

2. To do list.

I'm a huge fan of having a daily to do list. I use this to break down any overwhelming task and it's far less stressful if you're able to actually finish your to do list. As a postgrad student, I often found myself adding mammoth tasks to my to do list (eg. write a 3000 word essay) but by breaking it down to 500 words a day, it makes the task far less daunting!

3. Move.

When it's cold outside, the prospect of leaving the house is literally the worst but it's amazing the effect of endorphins can have upon your mood. I basically force myself to go to the gym every morning and schedule in gym classes to make sure I go! This means I don't get distracted and avoid going and I feel set up for the day! This also helps to remove any gym guilt as no matter how busy your day ends up, you know you've been to the gym! If I don't have time to go to the gym or if I'm not feeling it, I try and fit in at least a thirty minute walk. I've been using my Nokia Steel Activity Tracker* to keep a track of my steps! This is probably one of my favourite new accessories as it literally looks like a normal watch but syncs with your phone to keep track of steps etc. If you're after a smart watch but don't want a chunky tracker, this is ideal for you. Nokia is also currently running a 8-week challenge across the North of England which is to encourage everyone to move more! The challenge is running up until the 21st of December so there's still time to get involved! If you don’t have a Nokia, Garmin have a huge range of watches and their Garmin watch bands are easy to swap to update your look.

4. Socialise.

As an introvert, I could easily go without seeing people, but it does really help my mood! Whether it's saying hello to the cashier at the shops or deciding to work in the library, contact with people is vital. And no, you don't have to have a full on conversation - sometimes just seeing someone else is enough.

5. Allow time for self-development.

I'm head over heels for podcasts but lately I've been trying to integrate more podcasts that actually will help somehow. Whether it's to help your job or to improve your blog - podcasts are a great way to optimise any commuting time and wake your brain up!

What are some of your favourite healthy habits? Have I missed any of your favourites?

Please note that whilst I was sent the watch, I was not paid for this post.