We all want what’s best for our children. And, of course, there are many ways to go about this. We can — and should — devote time to making sure that they have everything they need to be their healthiest, happiest best. However, it’s also important to ensure that you’re the best version of yourself as well. If you are, then you’ll find that it’s much easier to handle all the many responsibilities of adulthood. Plus, you’ll teach your children valuable lessons. After all, kids pick up more from their parents than just what they’re told. By living well, you’ll also show your kids how to live well. And that’s something that’ll serve them well throughout life.
OK, with all that said, how can you be the best version of yourself? We’ll take a look at some of the most effective methods below. Some of them are easier than others, but they’re all valuable. Indeed, take all of our tips, and it won’t be long before you notice that you’ve radically improved your life!
For more on this topic, check out the full Staying Healthy collection
How To Be The Best You, To Be The Best Parent
Get A Good Night’s Sleep
Sleep is so important! Yet oddly, it’s something that is often under-discussed. We all know how much better you feel when you’ve had a full night of rest, and how much more difficult life is when you haven’t. Of course, there’ll be times when getting rest is impossible — especially when your children are extremely young. But if you find that you’re having difficulty falling asleep when everything is fine, then it’ll be important to make changes. Limiting the amount of tech you consume before you go to bed, creating a sleep-friendly environment in your bedroom, and limiting the disturbances will all help.
[Read: What to Keep on Your Nightstand & Relaxation Techniques]
Bright Beginnings
How you start the day will have a big impact on how well your day goes. If you had a chaotic beginning to the day, then it’ll be unlikely that you hit too many peaks throughout the day. Start the day right, and you’ll be set up for success. By far, the biggest enemy of a peaceful morning is time. It can feel like we’re continually rushing around to get everything ready, and that’s obviously stressful. So look at rising a little bit earlier. If you have time to have a good breakfast, meditate, and do some reading, then you’ll be on to a winning day. Bonus points if you can go for a run and then take a cold shower. That combination is more or less the best way to start your day with energy and positivity.
[Read: When Life Gets Busy… Tips & Strategies for Stress Management]
Eating Well
You are what you eat. I know that can sound like a cliche. But as with most cliches, it’s also true. There’s a big difference in how you feel after you’ve eaten a healthy and nutritious meal, and when you’ve eaten some fast food. Of course, one unhealthy meal isn’t going to have a huge impact on your life. However, if that’s more or less all you’re eating, then you’ll be putting yourself at a disadvantage. Look up some quick and easy healthy recipes, and eat well. It can have a game-changing impact on your life.
Daily Exercise
It would be nice if we could get what we need from sitting on the couch and watching Netflix all day. But sadly that’s not the case. If you want to feel at your best, then you need to move your body! The building blocks of being a human are becoming increasingly known for us. We were made to use our bodies, not sit around all day. By working out, you’ll give yourself more energy, boost your immune system, and give yourself mood-boosting chemicals such as endorphins as well. That’s a lot of benefits in exchange for twenty minutes of exercise! It doesn’t matter what you do, so long as you’re getting your heart rate up and doing so consistently. That could mean playing a sport, going to the gym, hiking, or walking around your neighborhood.
Handling Issues
Of course, while there are many things you can do that’ll push your health forward in the right direction, it’s worthwhile remembering that sometimes you’ll need to respond to new issues. Everyone picks up an issue or two just through the course of living. But thankfully, most issues can be managed these days. If you have a health concern, then simply visit your doctor, and see what they suggest. Of course, trips to the doctor are for serious issues. But you should also manage the issues that aren’t life-threatening but which can impact your quality of life. For example, your senses. If your eyesight isn’t what it used to be, then look at getting glasses or contact lenses. If you have problems with your ears, then learn what audiologists treat, and make an appointment. You’ll find that your enjoyment of life is greatly improved if you can experience it in high definition!
Mental Space
Life is stressful when you’re a parent. As such, it’s important that you’re taking steps to protect your mental space. Meditation, yoga, and making time for yourself can all help in significant and profound ways. You’ll essentially be putting a barrier between your wellbeing and the mania of the outside world. Other things, such as spending time in nature and carving out time to do things that you enjoy will also help. You should enjoy the journey that is life!
Goodbye to the Toxins
It can feel fun and relaxing to have a few beers or glasses of wine. But it’s important to remember that alcohol consumption can have a detrimental impact on your lifestyle. It can make you feel sluggish and low in mood. It’s a radical idea to avoid alcohol, but it’s something that’s worth trying. It’s possible that within a few weeks, you’ll have more energy and be happier — and it’ll more or less be down to the alcohol detox. Plus, you’ll receive the added bonus of saving plenty of cash!
For more on this topic, check out the full Staying Healthy collection
