Four steps to create balance in your life

Many of us are seeking balance: work and play, stress and relaxation. Life has become the quest for balance between extremes. There are some easy steps you can take to focus on balance.

Eat right

Commit to two servings of fresh fruits or vegetables a day. This will help your digestive system, fill you up for longer and give you a sense of being connected to nature in a way that frozen or canned produce does not.

15 minutes of continuous physical activity

Every day. It’s just 15 minutes. Walk the dog a little longer. Park the car further out. Finish your lunch salad and walk around the block. That treadmill that sits in the corner begging for attention – try a quick 15 when you get home for work or first thing in the morning. This will increase your heart rate, increase your resting calories burned, and improve your health.

Sleep at least 7 hours

Studies show sleep might be the one thing that affects all other things. An adequate amount of sleep controls hormone production and stress reaction. It is during sleep that our bodies regenerate and our brains relax. People who sleep well weigh less, are less stressed, and report a greater sense of satisfaction with life.

Spend 10 minutes on a relaxing activity

Indulge yourself every day. Give yourself a foot massage. Get comfy with a blanket and read poetry. Meditate to Celtic music. Play pool, wrestle with the dog, or chop vegetables. Whatever it is for you, 10 minutes is all it takes to reduce stress and relax the mind and body.