Our bodies are quick to tell us when something is amiss, an ache here, a pain there. These can be early clues to impending ill health. But we also receive signals suggesting that the body we are living in is perfectly healthy. The problem is, we tend to take this good news for granted because the sensation of good health is often overlooked. So, what are the indicators of a healthy, trouble-free lifestyle?
Sleep is a vital biological function essential for life. In fact, it is as important for good health as diet and exercise. A restful and consistent sleeping pattern is indicative of overall well-being.
Living in a healthy body means you rarely need to crash out during the afternoon. This indicates healthy adrenal function, and stable blood-sugar levels.
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health. If you can carry out daily activities without any pain or discomfort, and are able to undertake extracurricular tasks without running out of steam, then your energy levels are pretty much at their optimum.
If you’re pooping at least twice a day and doing so comfortably, your bowels can be considered to be in excellent working order. Anything less could be indicative of a digestive disorder.
Likewise, if your pee is clear and is passed easily and without pain, you have a healthy urinary system. It’s also a good sign that you’re well hydrated and that the kidneys are functioning properly.
Skin is the largest organ in our body. It’s also the most exposed, and requires a lot of protection. The state of the skin of the face and the neck in particular says a lot about our overall health. Skin that’s hydrated, supple, and evenly toned is in optimum condition
Key to maintaining healthy skin is to avoid prolonged periods in the sun and keeping hydrated. If your skin bounces back when you pinch it, you’re drinking enough water.
Thick and abundant hair is always a good sign that you’re living in a healthy body. Thin, brittle hair often signals a lack of key vitamins and minerals.
Oral health depends on following good general lifestyle habits, like brushing your teeth daily. If your teeth are strong, have a smooth texture and the gums are pink and firm, your mouth maintenance program is working.
Similarly, fresh breath is indicative of good oral health and that your gut health is balanced. Breath tinged with a foul odor is a warning sign that something is not quite right.
Regular menstrual cycles are a sign of good health and serve as a barometer of healthy hormones. While menstrual cycle irregularities usually aren’t serious, they can sometimes signal health problems.
Healthy brain function dictates our emotional and physical well-being. Good mental health means you’re better able to concentrate, have a reliable memory, and can communicate effectively. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is hugely beneficial in promoting optimum brain function.
If you have a healthy heart, much of what is relied upon to keep fit and healthy follows. The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood and nutrients that our organs need to work properly. Put simply, a defective heart is life-threatening.
We are well-equipped to fight infection from all sorts of potentially nasty viruses, bugs, and parasites thanks to our immune system. This front-line defense prevents illnesses and protects us from infection. It’s also the reason why wounds heal. Without it, we are at the mercy of a host of maladies and complications.
If you only succumb to one or two colds a year, then your immune system is doing its job. Regular snivels may indicate sinus disease, or a respiratory allergy.
Clear eyes and 20/20 vision are indicators of a healthy pair of peepers. Note that being a little nearsighted or farsighted does not necessarily mean your eyes are unhealthy. The appearance and feel of skin around the eyes also says something about your general health. This is an area prone to atrophy (thinning of skin) and photo damage (freckles).
Strong, healthy bones support our body structure and help protect vital organs from trauma and injury.
Strong, fast-growing nails mean the body’s getting all the vitamins and minerals it needs. A tip is to keep fingernails dry and clean. This prevents bacteria from collecting and growing under the keratin.
Good circulation, or blood flow, keeps the body well oiled and nourished. Plaque buildup, blood clots, or narrowed blood vessels can lead to poor circulation.
Body fat percentage is an indicator of physical fitness. As a rule of thumb, if you can see your abs, the percentage is within an acceptable range. Body fat impacts your metabolism, blood sugar balance, movement, momentum, and emotional well-being, so it’s important to keep it in check.
Firm muscles that are visible indicate a healthy body weight brought about by regular exercise and a balanced diet.
The old standard of being able to touch your toes says a lot about your general fitness and the suppleness of your body. Likewise, if you can balance on one foot without holding onto something, chances are you can tackle everyday tasks with ease.
The sitting-rising test involves sitting down with your legs crossed and standing fully upright without assistance from others or using any equipment. Being able to achieve this is another measure of strength and flexibility.
Watch Out for Part 2
