We all want to lead a healthier life. But with so much packed in a single day, it can be hard to take the time to commit to your health. Here are five easier ways to be the healthiest you yet:

Drink More Water
According to experts, the average American should be consuming between 2.7 and 3.7 liters of water per day, depending on gender and levels of activity. While drinks such as soda, juice, and alcoholic beverages can be tempting, they can spike your blood sugar levels, causing mood swings, unwarranted feelings of hunger, and weight gain. Additionally, soda and juice contain hundreds of calories, making weight gain easy. Meanwhile, water is calorie-free and works to rid your body of unwanted toxins, helps you stay healthy, and helps keep your skin clear and bright.

Eat More Plants
More likely than not, your diet practices of eating refined starches, monosaturated fats, and foods high in sugar could be making you sick. In fact, digestive diseases affect around 70 million people in the United States. To combat these issues, you should make an effort each day to incorporate a plant-based food into every meal. It’s a small change that will add up in a big way!

Exercise
Exercise is not just for individuals looking to lose weight. Rather, regular exercise helps to contribute to an overall healthier life. Exercise is one of the most accessible natural remedies for insomnia and anxiety. The Mayo Clinic recommends getting a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, or 75 minutes of rigorous activity.

Walk it Out
In addition to exercise, it is important to move your body as often as possible. This is especially pertinent for individuals who have sedentary careers in offices and other desk jobs. According to experts, one needs to take 10,000 steps each day to lead a healthier life. While it seems like a lot, it’s a matter of taking time out of your day to go for a walk. Try parking further away from your office building at work and taking the stairs instead of the elevator. These small things will add up!

Meditate
In our world of buzzing phones and brightly lit screens, it’s rare to have a moment of peace and quiet. However, that peace and quiet is entirely necessary. Take a few minutes out of each day to sit and reflect. Sit in a quiet room with your phone and all devices turned off and out of reach, and close your eyes and try to focus on your breathing, letting your thoughts pass peacefully. Many think that meditation is about not thinking about anything, but the true point is mindfulness. And with a few minutes of mindfulness a day, you’ll get the energy and healing you need to be the best you possible.

What is Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders involve a feeling of chronic nervousness, worry, apprehension, and fear. More often than not, these feelings of worry shape the worldview and behavior of an individual. Anxiety disorder is among the most common mental illnesses in the U.S.; it affects over 40 million individuals over the age of 18, which is approximately 18% of the population in this country. Anxiety can often lead to other problems, such as digestive disorders, an issue that affects up to 70 million people in this country.

And while anxiety can feel devastating to those experiencing it, it is also considered highly treatable. Despite this, only one-third of the population seeks and receives treatment. For the most part, many individuals seek the help of psychiatric medications to relieve their symptoms of anxiety. However, these medications can result in a range of side effects. Additionally, not everyone feels ready to take the plunge of trying psychiatric drugs to heal themselves. Many also feel this way about insomnia. But luckily, there are natural remedies for insomnia and anxiety alike that not only help to heal the body, but help one stay healthy for the long term.

Here are 3 natural remedies for anxiety that not only promote a healthier life, but promote overall energy and healing:

Exercise – Exercise is considered a powerful antidote for both depression and anxiety. When exercising, one releases endorphins and is able to balance stress levels. Additionally, it is a natural cure for insomnia. Try exercises such as yoga that promote deep breathing, free flowing energy and healing.

Chamomile – Whether it’s an anxiety induced stomach ache or general jittery feelings, chamomile tea helps to relax and body and calm the mind, proving to be a viable natural remedy for anxiety.

Aromatherapy – Scents such as lavender oil and peppermint oil are soothing smells that help to relax the senses and instill a sense of calm for those in heightened states of anxiety.

There are many more natural remedies for anxiety. For further information, consult your local natural health center to unlock the answers to a healthy body, mind, and soul that lie within you.