Afrikan Goddess (AG) Online

By: AG Editorial Staff

Do you see that cheery, bubbly coworker of yours and get envious? Or do you have a friend who just always seems so happy you wish you were her; sometimes you think she’s faking it because after all, “no one could ever be that happy all the time!” Are you feeling drained of energy lately and you have no idea why? Many times, the answers are so simple. We think we need to seek medical help (if none of the suggestions below have worked for you, you should medical help) when all it usually takes is making simple lifestyle changes. Being happy and healthy is something we all want to achieve, so why not start now?  There are no secrets to living a happy, healthy life. The basics are simply as follows:

Fresh Air and Sunshine: In this air-conditioned world, it is easy to fall into a pattern of becoming an air-conditioned or heat fanatic. Our office spaces are air-conditioned, our cars are air-conditioned and so are our homes. People hardly open the windows anymore and we wonder why we’re always sick. Many of us are aware that there are pollutants in the air we breathe outdoors, but how many of us know that the air inside our homes and offices could also be making us sick? Opening doors and windows allows for air circulation in our enclosed spaces.

Laugh Out Loud – A Lot: Ever heard the saying “laugh and grow fat?” Well, it was said for a reason. Imagine what it felt like the last time you had a good side-splitting, eye-watering laugh. We could all use humor in our daily lives. Science has proven that people who deal with high levels of stress are more likely to suffer from heart-related diseases than naturally happy people. Laughter has not only proven to be good medicine for the soul, it is medicine for our whole being. This brings us to our next point.

Healthy Relationships: Surround yourself with positive people; people who make you laugh, and who make you happy. People who find themselves in unhealthy unhappy relationships are more likely to be diagnosed with heart-related diseases than those in otherwise happy stress-free relationships. If you suffer a lot of anger, hurt, bitterness, stress, and sadness in your relationship these are signs you are in an unhealthy relationship that could eventually affect your health. Get out now before it’s too late. If the unhealthy relationship involves people you can’t do away with, such as family, find ways to distance yourself from stressful situations created when the family is together.

Positive Mental Attitude: Most often than not, having a positive mental attitude is one way to deal with stressful situations - and relatives. People who see the glass as half-full find themselves less stressed over situations they know they can’t control than those who see the glass as half-empty.

Nutritious Food and Water: Including nuts, fruits, fish, vegetables and water in your daily diet can go a long way to boost your energy level and feed the brain. Cut down on junk food, sodas, and coffee intake and see how your body responds. A healthy breakfast will give you energy to start your day out right.

Regular Exercise: Many of us are aware of the many health benefits of regular exercise: elevates energy levels, improves your mood, combats chronic diseases, burns fat, helps you sleep better.  

Rest/Sleep: Sleep helps to rejuvenate your body. The recommended amount of sleep for the average adult is eight hours. Napping is another way to make you feel rejuvenated during the day. Taking the time to relax is not only suggested by medical professionals, it is a requirement for any adult seeking to stay healthy, successful and relaxed. Good rest accounts for a very important part of your body’s functioning capabilities and energy levels.

Personal Hygiene: Simple everyday personal hygiene habits can go a long way to affect your health. Many diseases are caused by introducing bacteria into the body by way of the mouth and other body openings. Simple practices such as remembering to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, touching door handles, shaking hands etc. can go a long way to ensure that you kill bacteria that can cause you to get sick.