Being healthy and happy – who doesn’t wish for a life like that? We do so many things both physically and mentally, often without even being aware of it, that have a large impact on our health, energy level and with that our overall happiness. Your food pattern, sports routine, sleeping hours and even social life are all interconnected and attribute to a healthy and happy life.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with some tips to boost your energy level and to bring that lasting smile on your face.

1. Eat good food!

Let food be the medicine and medicine be the food – Hippocrates

We all know we have to eat better, consume a variety of food, limit sugary drinks and drink more water. But why don’t we just do this? Many people try to go on diets that are often too restrictive and hard to stick to, and end up falling back into their old (bad) routine. Gradual changes are always better than major changes.

Food is your fuel and gives you the energy needed to get through the day. You are what you eat sounds maybe a bit harsh, but is so true! Although every human body is different, there are some general tips that count for everyone. The most important thing is to consume everything in moderation – and yes, that does mean that you can have some chocolate once in a while. Eat a wide variety of food to get all your nutrients, focus on wholesome food and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Also nuts and seeds are very beneficial, even though they’re high in fat, they are rich in nutrients. Find a routine that works for you and don’t forget to treat yourself occasionally!

2. Get moving!

150 minutes of physical activity per week – that’s all it takes! Although you may feel exhausted after your 30-minute run, exercise actually gives you energy. It relieves stress and strengthens the muscles, which allow your body to work more efficiently. Easy changes to your daily routine could be to use the stairs instead of the elevator, to go for a walk during lunch breaks or to replace your social media hour by a workout. Whether you prefer to go to the gym, like to do team sports or enjoy going for an outdoor run, find something that you can make part of your routine. A sports watch may help to count your daily steps and to set goals for yourself. Have you not reached your 10.000 steps for the day yet? Go for a small walk after dinner instead of turning on the tv ;).

3. Keep your loved ones close!

It’s been proven that people that have close friends and family are healthier and live longer. Connect with people that send out positivity and have similar interests. They will give you energy and make you happy. People you can’t relate to and have a negative vibe around them, will actually drain the energy out of your body. Be selective in who you decide to be close with and focus on the ones that give you energy!

4. Sleep well

It sounds so cliché, but 1 out of 5 people in Spain experience sleeping problems. That’s quite shocking and still we don’t seem to really care about it. Poor sleep can make your body resistant for insulin, which makes you crave for sweet stuff and carbs, and reduces your physical and mental performance. It’s actually one of the strongest risk factors for weight gain and obesity. All your good intentions can just blow away with a night of poor sleep – shame, right? Make sure to make your necessary sleeping hours and avoid bright lights before you go to bed. It’s not a surprise that they say that a good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in a doctor’s book.

You have the key to a happy and healthy life completely in your hands. Create a routine that works for you, that you can stick to and make small changes at the time. Nothing is worse than falling back into your old routine, because you’ve basically asked the impossible from yourself. Food, activity, sleep and social life – they all go hand in hand and only give you the energy needed when focused on all of them together.

Life is too short not to enjoy it! – Glen Campbell.