When it comes to your health, it’s important to be honest with your doctor, but its even more important to be honest with yourself. Self-evaluation is a key part of progression.
If your goal is to be healthy, both mentally and physically, here are 20 health questions you should ask yourself.
- Did you take a shower today? Personal hygiene is crucial to mental and physical wellness.
- Have you eaten anything healthy in the past few hours? Fresh fruit or vegetables; pizza toppings don’t count.
- Have you had any water to drink in the past hour? Drink water regularly throughout the day.
- Did you get enough sleep last night? A well rested body and mind improves health dramatically. Stick to a schedule, and get the rest you need.
- Have you gone on a walk in the past 24 hours? Walking outdoors for at least 20 minutes will boost your energy and do miracles for your physical and mental health.
- Is it daytime, and are you dressed? You’ll be happier and more productive if you get ready every day.
- Is it nighttime, and you can’t sleep? Put away your phone, close your eyes, be still and count your breaths. You’ll be asleep before you know it.
- Any recent medication changes? If you feel that you’re losing your grip on life, if your more irritable or anxious, it might be because you’re on a new medication; or it may be a sign that you need medication. In either case, consult your doctor.
- Do you feel unattractive? Before you judge your looks, get cleaned up and dressed. Taking care of yourself will help you realize you are beautiful.
- Did you do something fun today? Reading a book, exercising, listening to music, dancing; whatever your notion of fun is, be sure to find time for it throughout your day.
- Have you hugged someone recently? Physical contact is important to a healthy body and mind. Hug your family, friends or pets. You will notice a difference right away.
- Have you given someone a compliment in the past 24 hours? Helping boost others self-esteem will often increase your own. Compliment someone, or send a nice text or comment on social media.
- Have you told someone how you are feeling today? Talking through your own feelings, whether they be positive or negative, give you a sense of control and helps sooth internal issues.
- Are you focused forward, or do you dwell on the past? Don’t be discouraged if you’re not reaching your goals right now. Odds are, you are still miles ahead of where you were last year. Focus on the future.
- When is the last time you got away? Having something to look forward to in the future can help minimize all of the problems in your life.
- Do you feel unproductive? Start with a single, simple task like making the bed, doing laundry or doing the dishes. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to move on to a new task once you get yourself moving.
- Have you made a big decision lately? If you’re noticing differences in your mental or physical health, realize that it may be your body and mind reacting to change.
- Have you exhausted yourself lately- physically, socially, emotionally, or intellectually? You’re body and mind are like rechargeable batteries. Make sure you take time to rest from stressful deadlines, people and activities. You won’t be as effective trying to go on a low charge.
- How long has it been since you felt poorly about yourself? Milestones are achieved when you realize that you’ve gone a day, a week, a month without thinking negatively about yourself. Even if it’s just minutes, it’s still progress.
- Have you talked to a counselor recently? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and think you need a little extra help, come see us at Mountain Peaks Family Practice. We’re happy to listen and provide treatment options so you can achieve your health goals.