How To Declutter and Organize Your Health Needs

February 14, 2023

Getting organized, decluttering and downsizing are some buzzwords you've probably heard before. These concepts are great ways to organize your life, eliminate things you no longer need and feel better about yourself. They also help you focus on the essential things in your life.

You can apply the same ideas to your health. There's no time like the present to take inventory of your lifestyle and how it relates to your overall well-being. Then you can make positive changes to get you back on track to healthy living.

Limit Unhealthy Foods

Foods that provide little nutrition can weigh you down both physically and mentally. Foods that are high in fat, sodium and sugar are empty calories. Eat too many of them, and you can gain weight. Processed foods can cause inflammation throughout the body and affect your brain, too. Inflammation can cause the brain to stop producing new neurons, heightening negative feelings.

You can declutter your diet by reading labels as you shop. Limit foods such as the following:

Cakes
Cookies
Cured meats
Processed snacks
Sugary cereals

Take Inventory of Your Healthcare Needs

Do you get annual checkups with your primary care doctor? Do you visit the dentist twice a year for a cleaning? Have you had a flu shot this year or gotten your cholesterol checked?

If you are unsure what screenings you need, check with your primary physician. Many offices are going through a digital transformation for healthcare, giving you access to your records online. If yours has a digital system, you may be able to see your lab results, make appointments and get healthcare advice. If not, make an appointment with your doctor to determine if you are due for any screenings or vaccinations.

Take stock of what appointments, labs and screenings you need to organize your healthcare.

Stay Hydrated

Water is the most crucial element in your diet. Be sure your body gets enough. Getting an adequate amount of water helps you:

Maintain regularity in your digestive system
Think more clearly
Control your weight
Regulate your blood pressure
Enjoy clearer skin

Downsize the number of sugary beverages in your refrigerator and drink more water to improve your health.

Increase Your Activity

Organize your calendar and add regular exercise appointments. This simple step can prioritize physical activity and put your health at the forefront. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each day. Going for a walk outside is an easy way to burn calories, get some fresh air and boost your mood. If you get bored with the same workouts, try something new or bring along a friend.

Reduce Screen Time

Usually, when you are in front of a screen, you are sedentary. Too much screen time can lead to an unhealthy amount of inactivity.

Being online is often necessary, whether at work, taking an online class or applying for a job. Most people enjoy some leisure time in front of a screen, watching shows or playing games. Once the screen time begins to overshadow your health, though, it's time to cut back:

Take screens out of your bedroom and at family mealtimes.
Take breaks during long periods of working and studying.
Find other activities to do with friends, such as playing a game of basketball or cards.

Make Sleep a Priority

Many people don't get enough sleep. There are various reasons for this fact — adults may have long or erratic work hours, college students may study late at night for tests, and many people may get interested in watching a favorite show and forget to check the clock.

Whatever the reasons for staying up past your bedtime, it's worth organizing your day to include eight hours of sleep. It improves your mood, metabolism and ability to think clearly.

Organizing and decluttering are excellent ways to make you feel better about yourself. Doing the same for your health can have the same effect. Take stock of your well-being and invest time in the factors that keep you at your best.