Things That Prevent You from Being Healthy and Happy

Amy Taylor January 23, 2014

Doctors and health experts have one common advice – exercise and eat right. But numerous studies have shown that living a healthy and happy life is about much more than diet and exercise. Some of the choices we make every day that don’t seem to be related to our physical health and well-being may also play a big role.

Here is a list of the common mistakes people make on a regular basis that unfortunately prevent them from being healthy and happy. Check if you are guilty of one or a few of them.

Sitting all day

“Recreational sitting”, like in front of the television or your computer may not be good for your health. Large-scale studies suggest that it could increase your risk of cardiovascular disease and worse, premature death. Too much sitting at work may not also be a good thing.

Not having a religion

A growing body of scientific research suggests that religion and spirituality may benefit individuals in a lot of ways. For example, people with strong faith often release control of their struggles and worries to a higher power, which can help to relieve anxiety and stress. Meanwhile, religious groups provide a strong source of support and friendships which are critical to health and happiness. It’s okay if you don’t consider yourself as a religious person. The message from this research is that you need a sense of belonging and community in your life. Numerous studies have shown that people who turn to the community for support are happier and healthier than their isolated peers.

Spending all day indoors

Travelling, especially to green spaces has great benefits to your health and well-being. A 2006 study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that wilderness excursions, also called ‘adventure therapy’ can promote weight loss, improve the self-esteem of people with mental illness, and even reduce the re-arrest rates of sex offenders.

Emotional detachment from work

Overworking can literally kill you, but being in a job that you don’t like may just do the same. A 2010 study published in the European Heart Journal found that overtime work may increase the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) among middle-aged employees. Add the stress from dealing with your demanding bosses and unfriendly colleagues. It may be difficult but it’s always a good idea to find and pursue the job you really want. Meanwhile, you can try different strategies to fight burnout at work.

Eating mindlessly

If you eat mindlessly, you are less likely to feel satisfied and full even after consuming a lot of food. Mindless eating has been linked to obesity and eating problems. It makes you choose unhealthy, calorie-dense food options as well, making you venerable to nutrition-related illnesses.

Avoiding meaningful connections

Connection is what makes our life more meaningful and happier. The connections we make with other people, such as our significant other, our friends, family and associates can all impact our health and well-being to a large extent.

Not being mindful

Do you spend at least 15 minutes to do nothing, think of nothing and just breathe? Numerous studies have shown that meditation does have a huge impact on our mental health. It also helps reduce anxiety and stress, boost the immune system, and improve our quality of life

Living a good life is not just about proper diet and exercise. We also need to pay attention to our social relationships, our emotions, the experiences we have at work, at home and with Mother Nature. These small things, when taken together, can greatly boost our health and happiness.