By:  Maryam Rastkerdar

We all know we’re supposed to stay healthy, but due to our fast-paced lives the thought of having to worry about our health can be overwhelming. So, we’ve simplified the process down to 10 little habits (many of which you may already do) to kick your wellness up a notch. Bonus points if you do five or more, and a gold star if you do all 10… though we’re not keeping score.

1. WAKE UP EARLY

“Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise” Studies have shown that early risers are both happier and healthier than those who stay up late and wake up late. It has also been proven that early risers have more cheerful moods as well as stable personalities.

2. EXERCISE IN THE MORNING

Regular exercise comes with remarkable benefits and research is discovering new reasons why it’s so important. The best way to ensure regular exercise is to do it first thing in the morning to feel accomplished, more energized as well as boosting the metabolism.

3. LIFT WEIGHTS

Strength training provides numerous health benefits. Research has shown that regular strength training can help prevent and reverse muscle and bone loss as well as help to relieve arthritis pain and improve sleep quality. In order to ensure healthy muscles and bones later in life, start lifting now.

4. STAY HYDRATED

We’re well aware of the importance of staying hydrated. In addition to being necessary for life, water helps keeping you energized as well as keeping the immune system strong. Water plays an essential role in maintaining body function—and it helps keep joints and muscles in good shape.

5. EAT WELL

A well-balanced healthy diet will help with every aspect of overall health when consumed over the long-term. It helps protect against health problems like diabetes, heart disease, obesity and other ailments.

6. TAK COLD SHOWERS

Research has shown that the drop in temperature brings numerous benefits. From increased fat burning to faster workout recovery, it might also ease symptoms of depression.

7. WEAR SUNSCREEN

It’s easy to point out the importance of daily year-round use of sunscreen to protect the skin. Not only does avoiding the sunscreen make you look older, but it is also increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Investing in a good face moisturizer with SPF and using it every day is extremely essential.

MOVE THROUGHOUT THE DAY

A sedentary lifestyle is bad for the overall health. Sitting too much has been shown to increase the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes and depression, Moving more every day helps avoiding higher risks down the line.

9. STAY SOCIAL

An integral aspect of overall health is our social lives that contribute to our overall well-being. Studies have shown that people with stronger personal relationships are more likely to outlive their lonely counterparts. Health risk that comes with being socially disconnected has been compared to smoking 15 cigarettes/day and more dangerous than being obese. It’s safe to say that making time for friends and ensuring friendships remain a priority.

10. STAY WELL RESTED

“If you cannot sleep you cannot be well”. Failing to get good night’s sleep can disrupt a person’s circadian rhythm, which regulates blood pressure and hormones. Adequate sleep helps improving memory, alertness and ability to retain information. It’s safe to say that making sleep a priority will provide great benefits in overall health