Are you ready to simplify your healthcare routine but not quite sure where to start, feel overwhelmed by the process and as a result don’t implement any changes? Here are some practical strategies to help get you started.

One of the main steps for simplifying your healthcare routine is to prioritise and focus on what you feel is achievable given your time, energy levels, ability to exercise and resources available to you. Simplifying isn’t about sacrificing, it’s focusing on what truly matters to you and your health and eliminating unnecessary complexity.

Remember that no healthcare journey set in stone, maintain the ability to be flexible and adjust your approach as you go and remember to be kind to yourself. Simplifying is about creating space for the activities that nourish your mind and body and reduce your stress.

 

Below are some healthcare recommendations to get you on top of your health and wellness.

 1. Establish a routine

Set up daily and weekly reminders to keep you on track – there are an abundance of apps available to download or set up reminders in your calendar on your phone, computer or tablet. If you are a visual person you could always try a planner on the fridge.

 2. Prioritise sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for health, well-being and energy levels.  Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine.¹

3. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is vital for maintaining energy levels, supporting digestion, and keeping your body functioning optimally. Aim to drink at least 2 litres daily, depending on your activity levels. Keep a re-usable drink bottle with you so you don’t get caught without water and can keep hydrated.²

 4. Focus on nutrient dense food choices

Aim to focus on incorporating nutrient dense wholefoods into your daily diet, skip the complicated diets while you are simplifying. Aim to limit processed or fast-food type take-away and opt for plenty of vegetables, fruits, quality proteins and wholegrains.

 5. Make time for regular exercise

Find an activity or exercise that you enjoy and at a time that is achievable given your schedule and energy levels. Starting small is ok, once you’ve mastered exercising regularly you can increase the duration, intensity or times per week.

 6. Implement stress management

We live in a stressful and busy world, aim to find healthy ways to help relieve and manage stress. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga are time effective options.³ You can even start with 1 minute a day.

7. Simplify supplement and or medication management

Ensure that you and your healthcare providers are all on the same page and wanting the same goals for your healthcare journey. If you are seeing multiple health care practitioners, confirm that they are aware of all the supplements / medications you are being prescribed so you don’t become overwhelmed with amount to take and that you are all focusing on the same healthcare goals.

 

Simplifying your wellness routine is not just about making life easier, it's about creating time for the activities that truly nourish your body and mind. By decluttering routines and embracing simplicity, you can improve your well-being and reduce your stress levels.

 

References:

1. Hirshkowitz M, Whiton K, Albert SM, Alessi C, Bruni O, DonCarlos L, et al. National Sleep Foundation’s sleep time duration recommendations: methodology and results summary. Sleep Health. 2015 Mar;1(1):40-3.

2. Fortes MB, Diment BC, Di Felice U, Walsh NP. Dehydration decreases saliva antimicrobial proteins important for mucosal immunity. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2012 Oct;37(5):850–9.

3. Sharma M, Rush SE. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction as a Stress Management Intervention for Healthy Individuals: A Systematic Review. J Evidence-Based Complement Altern Med. 2014 Oct 1;19(4):271–86.