| For many people, living a long, healthy life can be attributed to adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors. As an OPTAVIA coach, I can help you successfully transform your habits. At OPTAVIA, we support people along their journeys toward lifelong transformation— making a healthy lifestyle second nature. This journey is guided by fundamental principles known as MacroHabits and microHabits of Health, which are outlined in Chapter 2 of the Habits of Health® book.There are six MacroHabits that serve as the pillars of optimal health and play a vital role in building a healthy lifestyle.Here is an explanation of each MacroHabit, followed by an example of a correlating microHabit you can implement to improve or reinforce these Habits of Health:Healthy weight management. An eating plan specifically designed to move you through a fat-burning stage to recalibration stage in which your metabolism is working at its most efficient. Achieving a healthy weight can give you more energy, lower your risk for certain diseases, and improve the overall quality of your life. Eat a small meal or Fueling every two to three hours.Healthy eating and hydration. A focus on portion control, meal frequency, nutrients, eating a balanced diet, and the importance of water and proper hydration. Healthy eating and hydration are essential to fighting food cravings and coincide with healthy weight management. Drink one additional glass of water each day.*Healthy motion. Formal exercise as well as smaller activities and strategies for moving your body throughout the day. Healthy motion keeps your body flexible and strong and can also impact emotional wellbeing. Take a five-minute walk every day.Healthy sleep and energy management. Proper sleep as well as focus and productivity. Sleep is a critical, and often overlooked, component of Optimal Health. Getting at least seven hours of sleep can rejuvenate your body, reduce food cravings, and improve memory. Drink one less cup of coffee, soda, or other caffeinated beverage after noon.Healthy mind. How you make choices, understand patterns and triggers, and maintain calm and resilient with self-awareness and mindfulness. A healthy mind is just as critical as physical fitness. Maintaining a clear mind and managing stress appropriately are important for your overall health. Write down something you are grateful for in your journal each day.Healthy surroundings. Your environment can impact the success of your other MacroHabits. It’s important to build a support system that motivates you and celebrates your victories along with your journey to optimal health. Share an accomplishment that you’ve achieved, like running a marathon or losing 20 pounds with a friend or loved one to fuel your success. |
| *Talk with your healthcare provider prior to changing the amount of water you drink as it can affect certain health conditions and medications. |