1. Stay Hydrated
Think about those days when you don’t drink enough fluids, when you have too many cups of coffee or one too many glasses of red wine. Dehydration makes us feel terribly out of sorts, contributing to headaches, mood swings, and a host of other maladies. Sip on warm lemon water between meals to stay well hydrated in cooler months of the year.
2. Get Outside As Often As You Can
The pleasant sound of cute, little birdies chirping at dawn, the blazing midday sun, long walks through the park and jogging along tree-studded hiking trails – taking in nature or doing your daily dose of physical exercise outside is a surefire way to stay aligned with the rhythms of the universe.
3. Refrain from excessively watching television
Sitting on a big leather couch with your feet up on the coffee table while staring like a zombie at the boob tube as it blasts out less than mindful news reports leaves us feeling depressed, stressed and disconnected. Yoga teaches that everything we take in affects our consciousness so we want to make sure we’re exposing our minds to the good stuff. Read a book, cook a nice meal, do some yoga or meditate instead of spending hours in front of a TV.
4. Eat Only Whole Foods
Whenever you feel hungry, take a mindful pause and ask yourself, “am I really hungry in this moment?” If feeding your body with something nourishing is the truly mindful thing to do, then reach for whole foods only. Think grass-fed sources of protein, healthy fats, and green leafy veggies – these foods will feed you with the micronutrients your body needs for vitality.
5. Move your body daily
Refrain from sitting in front of a computer or other electronic screen all day long. Our bodies are designed to move, and to move mindfully. A nice, juicy yoga practice opens up the pranic body and leaves you feeling clear and calm, while also energized. If you need to go somewhere, walk or ride a bike. Moving your body in a mindful way adds much beauty and alignment to your days.
6. Be Totally Present When Engaging In conversation
You certainly don’t want to be thinking of the past or future or some imaginary far-off land while talking to anyone. Our relationships are vital to our well-being, and to nurture these relationships, we must practice presence as we engage. Make eye contact, listen, and bring your entire being to the conversation. Your loved ones will feel way more supported when you do.
7. Eat During Daylight Hours
Eating too much food late and night can leave you feeling groggy and ungrounded. According to Ayurveda, your digestive fires are strongest during midday and you should eat your largest meal at this time. Keep dinner light and save those late night dinner parties for special occasions.
And most important, have a whole lotta self-compassion with yourself and with others. At the end of the day, that’s the name of the game for a healthier, happier and more aligned life!
By Aimee Hughes N.D.
Aimee Hughes, ND, is a holistic health writer who has been traveling and exploring the world of natural health and wellness, yoga, dance, and travel for the past two decades. She is the author of a self-published vegan cookbook, “The Sexy Vegan Kitchen: Culinary Adventures in Love & Sex,” available on Amazon. Aimee is the lead writer and health consultant for the Yandara Yoga Institute in Todos Santos, Mexico. [www.yandara.com]