This Valentine’s Day (February 14th), set aside that bouquet of roses, a two-pound teddy bear and the fancy electronic gadget, and give your beloved the gift of health. On this special day, encourage each other to work towards a healthy lifestyle. Challenge and motivate one another to eat well, exercise, get plenty of quality sleep and maintain a happy life. These habits are not just about celebrating love—they will also become the base for a healthier and longer life.
Importance of Building Healthy Habits Together With Your Partner
A study reported that most Americans in committed relationships required a slight nudge from their partner to adopt healthy habits. Around 83% reported that they would follow a heart-healthy diet if their partner did, and 57% said they preferred to exercise with their partner rather than alone. Perhaps couples are more successful in maintaining a wholesome lifestyle when they motivate and lift each other up.
How to build healthy habits with your partner?
Cut back on junk food:
Vow to eat less junk food. Create a gradual plan to phase it out and focus on healthier alternatives.
Share nutritious meals:
It might be a bit of a struggle to eat healthy, but it becomes easier when you do it together. Try eating at least one nutritious meal together to start this habit.
Incorporate physical activity:
Prioritise physical activity together. This could be walking, hitting a gym or doing cardio. Motivate each other to avoid staying inactive and embrace an active lifestyle.
Say no to alcohol:
Alcohol can risk your health and well-being. Cut it down as far as possible, and drink in moderation when unavoidable.
Keep tabs on each other’s lifestyle choices:
Pay attention to each other’s routines and health-related habits. It may seem difficult initially, but mutual accountability can bring about results.
Establish financial wellness plans:
Ensure robust health coverage or savings to tackle medical expenses that may arise unexpectedly.
Set aside time for meaningful conversations:
Have honest, positive conversations. A clear mind at the end of the day will improve your mental health.
Plan occasional getaways:
Taking a break, whether it’s a short trip or an extended holiday, is essential for recharging and revitalising your mind and body. It helps reduce stress and brings joy to your life.
Check packaged food information:
Make it a habit to examine details on packaged items, such as expiration dates, ingredients, and nutritional facts. Commit to always being mindful of what you consume.
Learn and enjoy cooking:
Preparing your meals gives you control over your diet and brings numerous health benefits. Cooking at home ensures cleaner eating and helps you stick to your wellness goals.
Laugh, sing and dance:
Try to participate in shared hobbies that you both enjoy and do something that makes you laugh together and brings you closer. It’s a great way to reduce stress and improve life satisfaction.
This Valentine’s Day, focus on creating achievable goals with actionable plans to lead healthier and happier future lives. On this day, start a journey to love and support each other in setting a healthier lifestyle in your long-lasting relationship.
-Content partner Happiest Health
