6 ways you can find a better quality of life…..right now

Do you feel like you’re in a funk? Feel like something needs to change? If you're like most people, you find comfort in routine….but the flip side of this is that routine can make you feel bored, and in some cases, hopeless. If you want to change your quality of life, here are six ways to start.

Get social

Gather your mates and organize something fun, challenging or new. Run, set up a basketball challenge or simply get out for coffee. Creating opportunities to catch up strengthens social connections, and creates opportunities to check in on each other.

Get moving

Going for a walk – outside or on the treadmill - especially in the early morning, can invigorate you and prepare you for the day. Walking for a minimum of one hour will get your blood pumping and clear your head. Do this on an empty stomach. Not only will this minimize the risk of cramping from having a full stomach, it'll help you kickstart your metabolism and burn fat for energy. When you get home, you can eat a small breakfast and get on with your day.

Get lifting

The idea of lifting weights scares many people, either because they don't want to get "bulky," or they don't know what they're doing in the gym and don't want to injure themselves. However, lifting weights will not only change the way you look (in a good way), but it also will improve your quality of life. And our awesome trainers are always here to advise and help you.

According to a study done by the department of kinesiology at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada[1], high-intensity interval training results in an increase in mitochondrial density. Since mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the human cell, weightlifting has the ability to increase your energy levels and make you feel better overall. As you get stronger, you'll be less susceptible to muscle loss and brittle bones as you get older.

Get sensible about food

If you're a junk food junkie, then changing your diet can have a profound effect on your overall health. Stop eating potato chips and pretzels, and pick up more green veggies, low-sugar fruits, and protein. Don't be afraid of animal protein either, since it's an important source of B12.

Get off your phone

This is a tough one for a lot of people, but there's an increasing body of research showing blue light can be harmful for a good night's sleep. Research from Harvard University*, for example, shows nighttime exposure to blue light disrupts the body's circadian rhythm by interfering with the release of melatonin, a hormone released by the body which signals regenerative processes. Disrupting its release means you're not getting the restorative sleep your body needs to function properly. Over time, you may increase your risk for developing obesity or diabetes, and other chronic health conditions.

Get creative

Human beings are inherently creative creatures. Even if you don't think you're all that creative, odds are there's an idea inside you waiting to be released. When you create something, you experience a psychological change. When you create something new, you're naturally going to feel a sense of accomplishment and competence. That efficacy can then fuel motivation and get you moving in a new direction in life.

You don't have to make major changes in your life to make it better. You can start small. The important thing is to make a move and make some kind of change to what you're doing right now.

Resources: *http://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side