October is Health Literacy Month, a great time for Case Western Reserve University’s faculty and staff to learn more about staying healthy with the Wellness Program. Here are five simple tips to help you lead a healthier life:
1. Get Enough Sleep
Make sure you get a good night’s sleep, around 7 to 9 hours. Many people in the U.S. don’t get enough sleep, and it can affect your work and health. The university has a program called LivingWellRested to help you with better sleep habits.
2. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Processed foods are common in our diets, but they don’t give us the nutrition we need. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables, aiming for five servings a day (two fruits and three vegetables). Think of it as “eating the rainbow” by choosing a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.
3. Be More Active
Being physically active can boost your mental and emotional well-being. It’s especially important during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Try to incorporate daily physical activity into your routine to increase your energy and improve your outlook on life.
4. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Your blood pressure is an important indicator of heart health. Aim for a blood pressure below 120/80 mmHG, which is considered normal. If it’s higher, it may indicate a risk to your cardiovascular health.
5. Take Part in the Wellness Program
Every fall, faculty and staff are encouraged to complete health activities like the Health Risk Assessment and screenings. Doing these can help you understand your health and identify areas for improvement. Plus, you’ll receive a $25 monthly incentive in the following year if you participate.
5. Set Small Health Goals
Instead of big New Year’s resolutions that often fizzle out, focus on small, achievable health goals. Small steps can lead to significant improvements in your health. Learn more about this approach in the Pearl Habits webinar with Linda Fogg-Phillip.
Don’t wait to start making these simple changes to lead a healthier life.