Wellness? Fitness? What’s the difference? Fitness is more about being physically fit and strong. Wellness, on the other hand, is more about lifestyle changes. Sleeping better, having less anxiety, adopting a better diet, drinking more water… Making small changes in your habits can have a big impact on how good you feel overall. Would you like to make 2022 your year of wellness? Let’s take a closer look at a few easy ways you can make that happen.
What You Eat
Rather than declare that in 2022 you will lose 20 pounds, why not make a few small changes in your diet and see what happens? Consider some healthier alternatives to the foods you might have mindlessly reached for in the past. Have some unbuttered popcorn instead of those salty chips. Slice an apple to enjoy rather than consuming six chocolate chip cookies. Try not to snack after dinner. Over time, those better choices will add up to pounds lost, and you won’t feel like you have made a huge sacrifice.
Start Small with Exercise
Many doctors will tell you that launching into an ambitious exercise program when you aren’t used to physical activity is doomed to failure. The results can be sore muscles or even injury, both of which will quickly derail your lofty goals. Instead of the five days a week, two-hour gym sessions, why not dial it back to fewer shorter sessions? Better yet, use your swim spa in the convenience of your home for cardio activities such as swimming, rowing, and running. You can even add weights to your aquatic routine for strength training.
Manage Stress
One of the key components of overall wellness is stress management. Soaking in your hot tub for 20-30 minutes a day can significantly reduce an anxious mental state. Use the jets to massage away muscle tension and even improve your mood. If you have a sauna, you can achieve similar results. The quiet private seclusion and the sauna’s heat relaxes muscles, improves circulation, and can even reduce blood pressure. Try practicing some mindfulness in your hot tub or sauna, and increase your awareness of the present moment. Many people swear by this practice for managing stress.
Sleep Better
Did you know that chronic sleep deprivation can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, depression, impaired immunity, and even a lower sex drive? In addition, without adequate rest, you will probably not have the energy to exercise. Studies have consistently shown that a 20-minute soak in the hot tub or sauna prior to retiring to bed causes individuals to fall asleep more quickly, sleep more soundly, and stay asleep longer. Sleeping better can have a dramatic effect on your overall wellness.
Good Hydration
Drinking more water is essential for improved wellness, and it is an easy habit to develop. Adequate hydration can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke, plus reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. How? The more water you consume, the more fluid leaves your blood vessels which allows them to relax and dilate, therefore lowering your risk for cardiovascular issues. Drink eight or more glasses of water a day. It’s a no-brainer for better health!
You can easily make 2022 your year of wellness. Start with small changes and end up with big improvements to your overall well-being. Without making lofty goals that are doomed to failure, search for simple solutions to getting exercise, eating better, and improving your sleep and stress level. The solution to achieving better health could be right at your own home if you have a hot tub, sauna, or swim spa. When looking to improve your wellness, know that Juniper and The Pool People are here as your premier resource for all your hot tub, sauna, and swim spa needs.
