As colder days in Milwaukee are just around the corner, it can be tempting to avoid the outdoors, prepare favorite comfort foods, and “settle down for a long winter’s nap.”
Frigid temperatures and early sunsets do pose a significant challenge to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But our staff at Krause Funeral Homes wants to offer the reminder that healthy living doesn’t have to be about grandiose acts of health and fitness!
So much of healthy living is made up of small habits we do daily. Consider these tips:
- Get sunlight every day
Depending on your daily routine, you might leave for work before the sun is up and arrive home after the sun has set. Since we produce Vitamin D when sunlight hits our skin, it’s important to pay attention to how much sunlight you’re exposed to. If you can’t get outside for at least 30 minutes a day, think about increasing Vitamin D in your diet. Fatty fish, dairy, mushrooms, and egg yolks are all easy options. A Vitamin D supplement and use of a light lamp are also great options. - Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning
This is an easy habit to build into your daily routine. Hydrating first thing in the morning aids digestion, boosts energy, stabilizes your heartbeat, and normalizes blood pressure – among other benefits. Keep a glass of water next to the bed, set a glass next to the bathroom sink, or drink water while preparing your morning coffee. Choose whatever options works best for you that you’ll follow through with. - Stock up on houseplants
Not only do houseplants cleanse the air indoors, they also add a comforting and soothing element to a room. For those working from home, multiple studies have found that plants in the workspace increase productivity and creativity. Even caring for a potted plant can help increase feelings of well-being! - Take a look at your sleep patterns.
Studies show that people dealing with grief and other elements of stress not only have trouble falling asleep but staying asleep. For many, this means extra time in front of the TV or computer, which impairs sleep even more. Other people spend too much time in bed and the lack of energy builds on itself. Try going to bed at regular hours and following a bedtime routine. As much as you may want to indulge in a glass of wine or a sweet treat in the evenings, alcohol, sugar, and caffeine are known sleep disruptors. A healthier choice may be in order. - Track your steps.
We’re speaking from experience when we say it’s easy to overestimate how much activity we’re getting throughout the day. Using a fitness tracker not only serves as a great reminder to get up and move, but also will help you keep track of how many steps you’re taking every day. The numbers don’t lie!
Remember that our Krause team is here for families whenever you need us. Whether you’re interested in putting your end-of-life preferences in writing or are in need of our grief resources, we are available to you. Reach out any time you could use a helping hand.