Simple Lifestyle Changes That Can Impact You in 2022

By Maile Barcelon

In the beginning of 2022, a lot of us took a deep dive inventory of our lives. With the storm that followed the pandemic of COVID-19, many were left jobless, hopeless, in fear, and even angry. The political divide amongst many regarding simple things like “wearing a mask” and vaccinations have kept both friends and family a part. The mental health for many took a downhill turn resulting in depression, isolation, and anxiety. And even right now, the effects are still lingering.

It is without a doubt that the way we live our life and the practices we hold religiously in our every day routine needs a major makeover. Most importantly, improving our lifestyle in a way that changes our mental and physical health for the better is top of mind. So what can we do?

Set goals that are realistic and specific.

One of the biggest mistakes often made is promising to do or change something that you know you won’t commit to. And that just leaves everyone including yourself disappointed. For example, if eating healthier is something you want to incorporate into your diet, instead of saying, “I’m going to eat healthier.”, commit to adding a new vegetable or fruit to your meals that you never did in the past. Control what is controllable and you’ll start to see significant change.

Exercise. If you are that person that absolutely hates physical activity, I highly encourage you to... do it anyway. The countless excuses I’ve heard people make: its inconvenient, too busy, no money, don’t like to get sweaty, don’t want my hair to get ruined, it hurts, I don’t have daycare, blah blah blah. The reality is that exercise is the key to sustaining a healthy and optimal life and your health is so worth it. Exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health. But also for your mental health.

Here’s a shareable fact that most people aren’t aware of: when we exercise, our body releases a hormone called Endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. It is released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in response to pain or stress. When endorphins are released, we gain a sense of well-being and it relieves pain. There are about twenty types of endorphins that exist, but this one in particular as it relates to physical activity, or often referred to as “runners high” has been known to be the best for releasing endorphins. A moderate to intense pace of movement orany aerobic activity can help release the endorphin hormone and have you feeling fantastic! We also release endorphins when we laugh, fall in love, have sex, or have a good meal. So do more!

You also don’t need money to exercise. If you are someone who can’t afford to pay for online workout subscriptions or can’t pay for gym membership fees, don’t let that discourage you. Today, there are so many resources and workout routines available for free. Find something you can love doing in the space of your home that is most comfortable for you. Or, if taking a speed walk at the park or outside seems to be the best form of physical activity for you at the moment, then go with it. And if you don’t favor workouts like cross-fit or strength training, then consider group fitness classes like Zumba dance or Bollywood Fintess. Participate in some form of physical

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