July Health To-Dos

#lifestyle

Your July health to-dos are in! These health "to-dos" are easy daily health challenges that will help you accomplish your health goals. Last month we discussed turning off the TV, moving at work, and taking the health risk assessment. Let's see what lies ahead for July...

Take the Salt Shaker Off the Table

You don’t really need all that salt. It’s really bad for your beautiful heart, too. The average American consumes 2,500 – 5,000 milligrams of sodium per day. You really only need 500-1000 milligrams! By cutting down on salt use gradually, the taste buds will adjust.

Ways to reduce your sodium:

Cook from scratch. De-emphasize the use of processed foods.
Use the salt shaker sparingly. Taste your food before adding salt.
Try a sodium free herbal blend on the table.
Choose fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables without added salt.
Snack on fresh fruits and vegetables, which are low in sodium.
Limit processed, cured or pickled foods.

Forgive

Practice forgiveness by letting go of a grudge against someone who hurt your feelings in the past. Yes, we all make mistakes but it’s causing stress and more hurt in your life. Creating a blissful, happy life requires we let go of the hate in our life.

The Mayo Clinic says…

If you're unforgiving, you might pay the price repeatedly by bringing anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience. Your life might become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can't enjoy the present.

Call, write, or even Facebook the person and let them know. The closure is what you’ll really need.

Spend 10 Minutes Outdoors Daily

Spending time outdoors is good for you and it comes with many benefits. Your vitamin D levels will rise, you’ll get more physical activity, and you’ll be happier. According to Harvard, light tends to elevate people’s mood, and there’s usually more light available outside than in.