21 Habits to Stay Healthy in 2021

“He who has health has hope and he who has hope has everything.”

In 2021, we are still living in the aftermath of a dreadful pandemic. Whenever we think it’s gone, it blows up in full rage again. The Lockdown restrictions look like they will come and go and the graph of recovery continues to waiver unpredictably. With so much uncertainty around what’s going to happen next, it is possible to feel overwhelmed. But, as Tai Lopez, the entrepreneur extraordinaire says, “The key to lasting contentment lies in the four factors, which are, health, happiness, love and wealth.” And if we try to focus on health, everything else in life will follow.

So in this article today, I am going to tell you about the 21 habits you need to become the healthiest version of yourself in 2021. By inculcating these simple habits in your life, you’ll notice that even amidst all this chaos, you’ll be able to find peace within. 

1. Acceptance of Reality 

The pandemic is still on the roll, even with people getting vaccinated en masse, it may take time to get under control. The masks are here to stay. The sanitisers don’t seem to go away. The six feet distance is also a reality that we need to adhere to now. It's time we accept it as a part of life and get accustomed to the new normal. 

2. Learn to Let Go

Life gets the best of us from time to time. However, it's time to own up and stop sulking. Learn to find happiness in the little things and as cliche as it may sound, count your blessings. 

3. Stay Productive

When was the last time you made a to-do list and actually fulfilled it? As Nir Eyal reminds you, "Schedule your day or someone else will". So, live your life to the fullest, schedule your days, start owning every moment of your life. Spend time introspecting your priorities and ensure that you are also scheduling time daily to do the things you love. 

4. Sleep like a Baby

Sleeping is the way your body heals and prepares itself for another day of hard work. So, start making it a point to sleep for at least 7-8 hours a day. This should be a non-negotiable time, scheduled into your calendar. When you deprive yourself of adequate sleep, you’re depriving yourself of the quality of living a healthy life.  

5. Scroll No More

Well, you can’t stop scrolling cold turkey. But, how about limiting those hours of mindless scrolling through videos and memes? Instead of scrolling through your phone most of the time, make time for your family or friends, cook, read or develop a hobby. Something that is constructive and well, does more good for you than giving you eye strain and headaches.  

6. Skincare 

Your skin is your largest organ and regenerates every 7 years. So, it would be good to make it a habit to take care of your skin. Invest in skin care products and learn the regimen which suits your skin type. Consistency is the key to achieving results so stick to the routine for at least a week (or, as prescribed on the products). In any case, wash your face regularly, twice a day. Apply sunscreen lotion even if you are indoors and moisturize thoroughly. Initially, you might feel like these tasks are arduous. However, you will soon fall in love with your skincare routine and enjoy every second you spend pampering yourself. 

7. Take a Break from the News

Yes, it’s important to keep yourself updated with what’s happening in the world. But, it’s also important to give yourself a break. Maybe watch a movie instead or start your favourite TV show again. This little break that you take from the news will help you stay emotionally regulated and you’ll free up a lot of time that you can use to follow a passion or a hobby. 

8. Dress even if You’re at Home

You must know that dressing up isn't reserved for outings anymore. In fact, research shows that if you wake up every day and wear something other than your PJs, you’ll feel elevated and ready to take on the day. Clothes can decide your mood for the day so make sure you choose the right outfit. 

9. Don your Chef Hat

Cooking is essential. It's a basic life skill that everyone should know regardless of their gender. We can vouch for the fact that there's no greater joy than cooking a perfect dish for the first time. The joy of making your own perfect cupcake or curry is priceless. Begin today and let your culinary wings take flight!

10. Creative Visualisation

Scientists have proven that actively visualizing your goals is a surefire way to success. In reality, many of the most successful people in the world admit that they manifest their goals and plans to transpire. A simple exercise you can do before you go to sleep today is to imagine how you want your day to be tomorrow. Imagine in as much detail as possible and visualise that you are getting whatever you want (in a realistic measure). It’s no magic, it just gives you better clarity of what you want from life. 

11. Choose Your Hobbies

Kick your inhibitions and take up that hobby that you have been putting off since forever. Buckle up and spend time learning and perfecting something new. It could be writing, singing, learning to play an instrument, gardening or anything for that matter. Following a hobby will give you something to look forward to every day besides work. 

12. Encourage Positivity Around You

The pandemic's been hard on all of us. But, slowly and steadily nudge yourself to start looking at the positive things in life. It can be difficult at first to see the silver lining, so start journaling and putting your thoughts to paper. Eventually, you’ll see that the negative emotions will subside and positivity will kick in. 

13. Walk Away the Stress

Did you know that walking releases the happiness hormone in the brain that improves your mood and stimulates relaxation? Isn’t this a good enough reason to get out of your bed and take a comfortable long walk? It doesn’t have to be brisk or tiring, even a stroll can substantially reduce stress and anxiety.  

14. Spring Cleaning Anytime

Make it a habit of tidying your bed as soon as you wake up in the morning. Fold your sheets and de-clutter your space. An organised space leads to an organised mind. So wake up and clean away!

15. Start Reading

One can read anything they like but one must read. It activates your brain and your thinking process. Reading is a therapeutic process and helps you to escape from the chasms of the real world. You're only as smart as the last book you read so get that to-do list in order. Start reading on topics you love and delve into the rabbit hole of knowledge.

16. Exercise - A No Brainer

Exercising regularly in any form be it yoga, brisk walking or cardio helps to keep your body flexible and fit. If you exercise regularly, your confidence will soar and you will feel amazing and in control of your body. Though, you may not instantly feel the exercise that people talk about . Soon, the serotonin in your body will hit the roof and you will know why people love to exercise.

17. Hydrate Like No Body’s Business

Water hydrates and keeps the body functioning in optimal health. Keep yourself hydrated. Drink as often as you feel thirsty and even set a reminder, if you forget to drink an adequate amount of water daily.

18. Eat Well, Live Healthy

Rather than going on a strict no fast-food diet, start with portion controlling. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugars, or salt. Eat healthy snacks like almonds or nuts. Find a diet that is comfortable and works well for you. Avoid crash diets or changing diets frequently. Your body is a temple so treat it as such.

19. Spend Quality Time with Family

Make it a habit to stay connected with your family and loved ones. Check up on each other. Remember birthdays and anniversaries, be happy for them when they achieve something and be there for them when they don’t. These are the small things that make life beautiful. 

20. Enjoy the Solitude

Take time to be alone and do your own thing. Don’t be dependent on other people for your own happiness. Use this time to introspect, meditate, or do what you are good at. Learn to enjoy your own company. 

21. Stay Grateful

Do not compare your life to others. Focus on what you’re blessed with instead of what you don’t have. Don’t be insecure or feel left behind because it’s not a race. It is your life and you get to control the pace of it.