“The serious side of wellness” is a collaborative post.
When it comes to wellness, most of us conjure up images of kale smoothies and the perfect downward dog, and of course, yoga and healthy eating is a big part of the average wellness regime, but there are also many not-so-Instagram-worthy, but oh-so-important aspects of staying healthy that are just as big a part of wellness (or should be) too.
That being the case, let’s take a look at the more serious side of wellness below.
1. Annual physicals – not just an excuse to leave work
Let’s start with the least glamorous but arguably the most critical: annual physicals. Yes, they’re about as exciting as watching paint dry, but these routine check-ups are the cornerstone of preventative health. Think of them as your body’s annual performance review. It’s less about getting a gold star and more about ensuring everything’s running as smoothly as a well-oiled machine.
2. Mental health: more than just a trendy hashtag
Mental health, folks, it’s a biggie. It’s not just a trendy topic for wellness blogs; it’s real and as important as physical health. So, let’s give our brains the same TLC we give our bodies. Whether it’s therapy, meditation, or just a good old vent session with friends, mental wellness deserves a front-row seat in our lives.
3. Sleep: your secret superpower
In our hustle culture, sleep is often the first thing we sacrifice. But let me tell you, sleep is not for the weak; it’s for the wise. Quality zzz’s are like a magic potion for your body and mind.
So, let’s stop glorifying the ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead’ mentality and start treating sleep as the superpower it is.
4. Hydration: more than just a fancy water bottle
We all know hydration is key, but are we really paying attention to it? Drinking enough water is like giving your body a daily internal spa treatment. Plus, it’s a good excuse to buy one of those fancy water bottles – hydration but make it fashion.
5. Dental check-ups: open wide and say ‘ahh’
Dental health often gets sidelined in the wellness conversation, but it’s crucial. Those twice-a-year dental check-ups are about more than just avoiding cavities; they’re about maintaining overall health. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about that squeaky-clean-teeth feeling.
6. Healthy eating: balance is key
Now, let’s talk food. Healthy eating doesn’t mean you have to swear off all things delicious if you don’t want to (and who does?) It’s about balance. Enjoy your greens, but don’t feel guilty about the occasional indulgence. Life’s too short to say no to the dessert menu.
7. Exercise: find your joy
Exercise shouldn’t ever be a chore. You need to take the time and effort to find something that makes you happy – be it dancing, hiking, or just walking your dog. It’s less about having a gym-worthy physique and more about feeling good in your own skin.
8. Sun protection: not just for the beach
Sunscreen isn’t just for those lazy days spent at the beach beach; it’s an everyday ally for your wellbeing. Protecting your skin from Mr. Sun’s rays is a year-round commitment that will not only keep you healthy, but also keep you looking good too.
9. Regular screenings: better safe than sorry
And finally, we come to regular health screenings – things. They might not be fun, but they’re necessary. From mammograms and an annual heart check to skin checks, these screenings are like an early warning system that will alert you to any potential issue sooner, rather than later, so you can set about getting treatment and getting well again. Taking good care of your health is true wellness – never forget that!
