Cholesterol isn’t only bad because your body needs it to repair and rebuild cells. But too much of the wrong kind can be dangerous.

The best way to lower LDL cholesterol is by taking your diet seriously. Eating the right foods can make all the difference.

What is Cholesterol, and why is it important? 

Cholesterol is a vital lipid that helps build cell membranes, produce hormones, and synthesize vitamins. While your liver naturally produces cholesterol, some also comes from food.

It is essential for building tissues, vitamins, and hormones. Your liver and cells produce it. And is also found in your cell membranes. Some cholesterol comes from dietary fat carried by chylomicrons. 

Since cholesterol doesn’t dissolve in blood, it is carried by lipoproteins:

• LDL (Bad Cholesterol): Delivers cholesterol to tissues but can build up in arteries, increasing heart disease risk.

• HDL (Good Cholesterol): Removes excess cholesterol and carries it back to the liver for disposal. 

• Chylomicrons are the most significant lipoprotein which transport triglycerides from the intestines to the liver, fat, and muscles. 

Too much LDL can lead to artery blockage, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol balance is key for overall heart health. 

23 Cholesterol-decreasing foods you must add to your diet today itself 

Knowing which foods will reduce cholesterol is the key to a long healthy life. Here are 23 foods that will help reduce cholesterol: 

1. Fermented foods: 

Pic: Freepik

Fermented foods are rich in probiotics and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Probiotics enhance gut microbiome diversity and assist in breaking down cholesterol. SCFAs support liver metabolism, reducing the risk of metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes. 

Common SCFAs: Acetate, Propionate, Butyrate 

Examples of fermented foods: 

• Soibum (fermented bamboo shoots) with 2.61 – 3.09% dietary fiber 
• Hawaijar (fermented soybeans) with 5-7 gm per 100 gm 
• Kimchi with 2.4 gm of dietary fibre in 100 gm 
• Hentak (strong-flavored fermented fish paste) with {negligible fiber} 

2. Garlic: 

Pic: Freepik 

Garlic contains allicin, an active compound that helps lower LDL cholesterol. Allicin binds to LDL receptors on liver cells, reducing LDL at the cellular level. It also inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for cholesterol production. It also has 0.06 gm of dietary fiber per 100 gm. 

3. Oats: 

Pic: Freepik 

Oats have 7.5 g of dietary fiber & is rich in a soluble fiber called beta-glucan. The beta-glucan forms a gel-like substance in the intestines promoting cholesterol excretion. This forces the liver to use circulating cholesterol to produce new bile acids, reducing blood LDL levels. 

4. Basil & Cinnamon : 

Pic: Freepik 

Basil has 0.1 grams of dietary fiber per 2 tablespoons (5 grams) serving. And cinnamon has 1 gram per teaspoon. They are packed with antioxidants. The Antioxidants neutralize free radicals damaging LDL particles. The antioxidants protect blood vessels by reducing inflammation. 

5. Ginger: 

Pic: Freepik 

Ginger has 2 grams of dietary fiber per 100 gm. It also contains gingerol, which enhances lipid metabolism through an enzyme called hydroxymethylglutaryl Co-A. It stimulates cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase to enhance conversion to bile acids. 

6. Yogurt: 

Pic: Freepik 

Greek yogurt with 0 dietary fiber contains probiotics lactobacillus & bioactive peptides. Lactobacillus metabolizes “bile acids”, forcing the liver to use cholesterol to replenish them. The bioactive peptides inhibit enzymes that raise blood pressure, indirectly improving cholesterol metabolism. 

7. Lentils & Chickpeas: 

Pic: Freepik 

Lentils & chickpeas have 15.5 & 17 grams of dietary fiber per 100 gm. They are also rich in phytosterols (plant-derived compounds). The soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the gut, preventing absorption. The phytosterols compete with cholesterol for absorption in the intestines. This slows digestion, stabilizing blood sugar and reducing LDL production. 

8. Red Yeast Rice: 

Pic: Freepik 

Red yeast rice contains natural statin-like compounds like Monacolin K. It inhibits an enzyme HMG-CoA reductase which synthesizes cholesterol in the liver. The enzyme also helps in reducing LDL and triglycerides while mildly raising HDL. It also has 0.8% dietary fiber. 

9. Wheat: 

Pic: Freepik 

Whole wheat, bran, and whole-grain products are rich in beta-glucan (10 gm of soluble fiber per 100 gm) and lignans. The beta-glucan binds to bile acids, promoting cholesterol excretion. The Lignans (plant compounds) reduce inflammation and improve lipid profiles.  

10. Fruits: 

Pic: Freepik 

Apples, citrus, berries, grapes, and pears are packed with pectin and polyphenols (e.g., flavonoids). It also has 2.4 grams of dietary fiber per 100 gm. The pectin traps cholesterol in the gut, preventing absorption. The polyphenols (e.g., in berries) reduce LDL oxidation and inflammation. Fruits like grapes provide resveratrol, which improves HDL function. 

11. Nuts: 

Pic: Freepik 

Unsalted nuts, almonds, and walnuts contain unsaturated fats (omega-3s), 7.1 gm fiber per serving, plant sterols, antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E) etc. They replace saturated unhealthy fats, block cholesterol absorption in the gut & intestines, prevent LDL oxidation, and reduce plaque formation & LDL production. 

12. Fatty fish: 

Pic: Freepik 

Fatty fish like Pengba, and Boal mass contain Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) & zero fiber. 

The Omega-3s regulate lipids by increasing HDL & reducing VLDL production. This helps enhance blood vessel elasticity and reduce cytokines. 

13. Legumes: 

Pic: Freepik 

Legumes like Beans (black, kidney), chickpeas, peas, and soybeans contain 5gm of soluble fiber per 100 gm, resistant starch, plant protein & magnesium. This forces the liver to use extra cholesterol, produce short-chain fatty acids & regulate lipid metabolism. 

14. Olive oil: 

Pic: Freepik  

Extra-virgin olive oil (cold-pressed) contains monounsaturated fats (oleic acid), polyphenols (oleocanthal), 0% dietary fiber. This helps reduce LDL oxidation, boosts HDL, and fights inflammation. 

15. Avocados: 

Pic: Freepik 

Whole avocados contain monounsaturated fats, soluble fiber, beta-sitosterol (a phytosterol) & 6.7gm dietary fiber per 100 gm. This helps replace saturated fats with monounsaturated ones. And it aids cholesterol excretion & protects blood vessels from oxidative stress. 

16. Vegetable oils: 

Pic: Freepik 

Vegetable oils like canola oil, and avocado oil contain tocols, phenolics, polyunsaturated fatty acids & 0 % dietary fiber. Tocopherols & tocotrienols prevent LDL oxidation modulating cell functions. Polyphenols increase the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are used by our bodies without leaving behind LDL & keep LDL levels low. 

17. Dark chocolate: 

Pic: Freepik 

Dark chocolate with 11 grams of dietary fiber/serving contains flavanols, polyphenols, and theobromine. Flavanols boost nitric oxide production, improving blood vessel elasticity & reducing LDL adhesion to artery walls. Polyphenols prevent LDL particles from oxidizing, lowering plaque formation. And the theobromine mildly lowers LDL and triglycerides while raising HDL. 

18. Soy products: 

Pic: Freepik 

Soy products contain isoflavones & soy protein. The Soy protein helps upregulate LDL receptors in the liver, enhancing cholesterol clearance from the blood. The Isoflavones act as antioxidants, reducing LDL oxidation and arterial inflammation. Normally soy products have 8 grams of dietary fiber per serving. 

19. Eggplant & okra: 

Pic: Freepik 

Eggplants & Okra contain 2.5 & 3.2 grams of soluble fiber per serving (viscous mucilage) & antioxidants (nasunin in eggplant). The soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance that binds to bile acids and cholesterol, promoting excretion. The antioxidants protect blood vessels from oxidative stress linked to high LDL. 

20. Leafy greens: 

Pic: Freepik 

Leafy greens contain 4 grams of fibre per serving, lutein, and other carotenoids. The lutein prevents LDL oxidation and reduces plaque buildup in arteries. The nitrates improve blood flow, reducing cardiovascular strain.  

21. Granola bars & Margarine like spreads: 

Pic: Freepik 

Granola bars have 2-3 grams of dietary fiber per one piece. While margarine-like spreads have zero. 

But both of them contain plant-based sterols and stanols and block cholesterol absorption. The sterols/stanols structurally resemble cholesterol, competing for absorption in the intestines. This forces dietary cholesterol to be excreted instead of absorbed.  

22. Plantago ovata plant’s seeds: 

Pic: Freepik 

Plantago ovata has 2.4 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It also contains psyllium which lowers LDL by binding to bile acids. The psyllium absorbs water to form a gel, trapping bile acids and cholesterol in the gut. The liver then uses circulating cholesterol to replenish bile acids, reducing blood LDL.  

23. Chia Seeds: 

Pic: Freepik 

Chia seeds have 10 grams of dietary fiber per 2 tablespoons. And it also contains soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The soluble fiber binds to cholesterol, similar to oats and psyllium. The omega-3s reduce triglycerides and inflammation, indirectly improving cholesterol balance. 

Top 4 worst foods for cholesterol 

1. Foods with Saturated/Trans Fats: 

Pic: Freepik 

Processed meats, burgers, fried chicken & packaged snacks are bad for cholesterol. The trans fats stimulate the liver to produce more LDL & reduce LDL receptor activity. It also suppresses HDL & activates inflammation & damages blood vessels promoting plaque. 

2. Foods with added sugars: 

Pic: Freepik 

Sodas, ice cream, and energy drinks contain added sugars which are bad for cholesterol. The added sugars are converted to triglycerides in the liver. It then lowers HDL and increases artery-clogging VLDL particles. It leads to small, dense LDL particles that easily penetrate artery walls and form plaques. 

This promotes insulin resistance, disrupting lipid metabolism, and worsening cholesterol imbalances. 

3. Foods with Heme iron & TMAO: 

Pic: Freepik 

Red meat (beef, lamb, pork) & Processed meats (bacon, sausage), etc contain heme iron & TMAO which are bad for cholesterol. The Heme iron generates free radicals oxidizing LDL making it more likely to stick to artery walls. Gut bacteria convert carnitine (abundant in red meat) to TMAO. Thus promoting inflammation and making plaques prone to rupture, increasing heart attack risk.  

4. Processed Foods: 

Pic: Freepik 

Canned soups, Processed cheese & instant noodles are high in sodium, preservatives & monosodium glutamate. The sodium raises blood pressure damaging artery walls, creating sites for cholesterol plaques to form. The preservatives like nitrates/nitrites react with LDL, accelerating oxidation and plaque buildup.  

Combined with high cholesterol, these components accelerate atherosclerosis and heart failure risk. 

Conclusion: 

Eating the right foods will help lower LDL & VLDL & maintain high HDL. The right foods will protect your blood vessels & heart from damage, giving longevity to your health. 

But bad food will increase LDL & fill your blood with sticky fats & sugars clogging your arteries. 

To stay healthy, you must swap the bad stuff with foods with good nutrients. 

Pick grilled chicken over fried & fruits instead of candy. This small change will make a significant difference in your health. 

FAQ: 

1. Ideal cholesterol levels for children? 

For children under 19 (both genders), the ideal cholesterol is: 

• Total Cholesterol: under 170 mg/dL
• Non-HDL: under 120 mg/dL
• LDL: under 100 mg/dL
• HDL: 45 mg/dL or higher

2. Ideal cholesterol levels for adult men? 

For 20+ men, the ideal cholesterol is: 

• Total cholesterol: 125-200 mg/dL
• Non-HDL: under 130 mg/dL
• LDL: under 100 mg/dL
• HDL: 40 mg/dL or higher

3. Ideal cholesterol levels for adult women? 

For 20+ women, the ideal cholesterol is: 

• Total cholesterol: 125-200 mg/dL
• Non-HDL: under 130 mg/dL
• LDL:under 100 mg/dL
• HDL: 50 mg/dL or higher

4. Some easy recipes that include cholesterol-lowering foods 

Braised chicken, salad, fish mixtures, tacos with vegetables. 

5. Which drinks increase cholesterol? 

Sugary drinks like fruit juice, soft drinks, alcohol & energy drinks. 

6. Do bananas lower cholesterol? 

Yes, bananas are rich in soluble fiber which adds to reducing cholesterol absorption in the digestive system. 

7. Are eggs good for cholesterol? 

Eggs do not help in reducing cholesterol. The white part of eggs is mostly protein & the yolk contains cholesterol. But the amount of cholesterol in eggs is negotiable. 

8. Best morning drinks for cholesterol 

Lemon tea, Pomegranate Juice, Green tea, Apple Cider Vinegar, Beet Juice. 

9. Are milk and coffee bad for cholesterol? 

Yes, coffee increases cholesterol, especially the ones prepared using French press or Turkish. 

Milk with high saturated fat increases LDL cholesterol. So, choose filtered coffee and low-fat or fat-free milk instead of whole milk. 

The post How to Naturally Lower your Cholesterol: 23 Foods to Consider appeared first on A2Z Lifestyles.

The way we define happiness is different for each of us. You might find happiness in hanging out with your old friends, while someone like me finds joy in reading a favorite book with a perfect cup of coffee. For someone else, it could be finishing all their tasks before a deadline.

But despite all these differences, is there something that happy people share in common?
The answer is yes—certain good habits that all happy people share.

And more importantly, it is essential to build these habits because all the happy moments mentioned above are occasional. So, their occasional happiness can fly away as soon as the occasion ends.

But the happiness you earn through these habits lasts longer and is more fulfilling. So here is a list of 8 habits of happy people that you can learn and implement today.

Read this blog till the end to discover a bonus habit just for you!

Let’s jump in!

Source – Unsplash

The 8 Habits of Happy People

Here is a list of 8 habits common among the people:

Habit 1: Saying “No” Without Guilt

We often say yes to a task or a favor for a friend, family member, or peer without thinking if we can really do it. And, the reason is simply not wanting to offend the other person, and in all this, we lose our peace to make them a little more comfortable.

But you need to understand that saying ‘no’ early can actually help both you and the other person. It saves your peace and happiness in the long run.

And trust me, many people will appreciate your honesty and clear thinking, as it saves both sides from feeling uncomfortable in the end.

Habit 2: Embracing Failure as Growth

If you are one of those self-critical people, you are often unhappy  just because you cannot accomplish a target or task. Or maybe you failed at doing something where you expected yourself to succeed. 

Now you think of yourself as a failure and feel frustrated because you’re also guilty of wasting time—time you could have used to do something else.

This may sound cliché, but that, my friend, happens to everyone and all the time. Every time a person tries to push their comfort zone and makes an effort to learn something new, mistakes are bound to happen—it’s only natural.

We all have the misconception that we failed for “nothing.” But that’s not true. Doing something new helps you gain experience.You gain more wisdom and experience than you had before.

 As Winston Churchill famously said:

“Success is not final, and failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count.”

Habit 3: Seeking Adventure in Everyday Life

As a child, we were always excited about visiting new places, attending events, and meeting new people. But as we grow older, we want to execute everything well— make the best first impression and strategize our every move.

But that comes with a lot of constant overthinking and evaluation.

So, take a chill pill and be excited again! Discover that new meeting place, meet new people, and try new activities or hobbies. Make your life fresh again and have that child-like excitement and joy for every coming day. Be ready to experience the unique and new things life might bring.

Habit 4: Practicing Gratitude Daily

One of the biggest things that can take away your happiness is always comparing your life to others. Sometimes, we even feel jealous of what someone else has that we don’t—things we might not even really need.

And the digital age has worsened it, constantly leaving you feeling left behind if you’re not keeping up with all the trends.

But here’s the truth: everybody has hardships you’re unaware of because no one displays their struggles on social platforms. Everyone tries to show the best version of their lives.

So, change your perspective. Instead of focusing on what others have that you don’t, think about what you have that someone else might wish for.

Be grateful for all the joys of life. If those weren’t there, your life could have been even worse.

Cherish the little joys!

Habit 5: Immerse Yourself Completely in the Present Moment

Many people are never completely present in the activity they’re performing. There’s no complete involvement.

No matter what you’re doing, your mind keeps thinking about what needs to be done in the future and what could have been done better in the past. That constant scenario-building—ufff!

Source – Pexel

Just try to focus on the moment. Whatever you’re doing right now, give it your full attention as if it’s the last thing you’ll ever do, no matter how small it is.

When you walk on the ground, feel the touch of the ground completely. When you frame a message, give it your complete attention and consider why you’re writing each word. When you’re listening to someone, be all ears.

Habit 6: Giving Space for Solitude

Happy people build their inner world.

Just as you need to be present for others, you must also be present for yourself. In the constant rush of life—meeting people and completing daily tasks—just take time to be with yourself.

Do a self-reflection on what you did today and why you did it. This will help you get connected with yourself.

Being present in the outer world is important, as is being in your inner world. And let’s agree—we all encounter situations we don’t want to be in.

Happy people build their inner world as a place to seek refuge, reflect on their actions, tap into creativity, find emotional balance, recharge, and center their thoughts.

Habit 7: Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is one of the most underrated activities most people ignore, but happy people don’t.

Exercise helps eliminate daily mental and physical stress and releases endorphins. This gives your brain a happy feeling and keeps your impulses in control.

Source – Freepik

It doesn’t have to be a strict hardcore regime. Even simple activities like daily walking or playing outdoor games can be a game changer.

Habit 8: Creating a Legacy of Love, Not Material Things

There must have been a time when you were pleased purchasing something you had wanted for so long. There must also have been times when you met your friends or loved ones, talked for hours, and did amazing activities together.

Which one do you remember the most? Which makes you happier?

See, the experiences and memories we create and the people we spend time with give us the most wholesome and happy feelings.

Expensive things can make us feel good for a short time, but in the end, it’s human relationships that we value most because they help us feel who we really are.

Bonus Habit: Slow Down

Life is fast. Your everyday activities and tasks are lined up—you must attend school, college, offices, or manage your business. This routine often makes you so caught up in finishing things that you forget to stop and truly feel the essence of life.

 This is where you can gain an edge—by slowing down. 

Learn to find joy in slow moments. Let the taste of that dish soak in. When you drive, feel the wind on your face. Take unhurried walks and savor the beauty of life around you.

Conclusion

Happy people don’t just stumble upon happiness. Over time, they cultivate and consciously engage in good habits that make them happier than others who don’t.

So don’t just live day by day to get things done. Pay attention to your feelings. Try to figure out what makes you happy and include the above-mentioned habits in your daily life.

And likewise, try to eliminate things that aren’t worth what they’re taking from you.

In the end, happiness is the ultimate destination.

Thanks!

FAQ Section

Q: Are happy people more productive?

According to research by Oxford Business School, happy employees exhibit higher energy, focus, and efficiency, leading to a 13% increase in productivity.

Q: What do happy people do differently?

Happy people build strong social connections, practice gratitude, adopt an abundance mindset, and engage in activities that align with their values and strengthen their relationships.

Q: Why do happy people live longer?

Research by Harvard Health Publishing shows that happy people have a reduced risk of certain diseases like heart attacks and strokes. They also tend to have healthier organs and lower chances of infections, contributing to longevity.

Q: Which country has the happiest people?

According to the World Happiness Report, Finland has been the happiest country in the world for over a decade, scoring 7 out of 10 on the happiness index. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden follow it.

The post 8 Habits of Happy People You Need to Know appeared first on A2Z Lifestyles.

According to a report, 71% of people increased happiness from their self-care practices, whether sports or mindful exercises like meditation. Pick activities you could adapt to your routine, even when there’s too much work or holidays.

We’re sharing 10 self-care activities that anyone can do.

Whether you’re a student wrapped in studies, a retired citizen with free time, or a busy entrepreneur, you need only 10 minutes to boost your mood.  

Image source: Freepik

Different Areas of Self-Care Activities

Before we get into self-care activities, it’s important to highlight some myths around self-care activities. People think it’s just pampering or it is for those who are struggling with poor mental health. Your friends might say you’re spending “too much time” on yourself. Or, worse, that you’re being selfish. In reality, it’s none of these things.

Self-care activities go beyond fitness or getting yourself to a spa. It extends to managing your finances and building healthy relationships with your friends and yourself. Even the WHO recommends people incorporate self-care practices into their daily routines to improve overall health and well-being in two facets: self-care actions & self-care intervention. The latter narrows to a more specific approach to tackling health needs or conditions. 

10 self-care activities to boost your mood 

Self-care activities boost mood and improve mental health. Here’s a list of 10 self-care activities you can start right now:

1. Start your day with stretching & mobility exercises.
   

Waking up with a sore body is like standing on a stack of needles. Stiff and prickly. Mobility and stretching exercises can undo soreness, prepare you for the day ahead, and instantly boost your mind. Old or young, these exercises are for every age. You don’t have to take yourself to a crowded gym station that takes 10 minutes to find a parking spot. Find a mat. Sit comfortably. And get started. 

Image Source: Freepik

2. Connect with your inner self.

Remember the last time you had a conversation with yourself? A time when you could be real with yourself. One-to-one. Yes, the same way Christine (Saoirse Ronan) did in the film Lady Bird. Filmy, isn’t it? But talking to yourself is one of the best ways to cultivate self-care and manifestation.

Dr. Doty, a neuroscientist and NY Times bestselling author, demonstrates this through decades of research. He says, “People need to be compassionate to themselves and cut off the inner self-critic. Instead, connect with your inner self by activating love mode and achieve your goals.”

We speak to our inner selves every second, alone or in a metro station where everyone gets squeezed like lemons; your brain is always thinking. How you do it is important. Treat yourself with compassion, regardless of the situation in life. Going on a nature walk and journaling are beginner-friendly ways to build compassion with your inner self. Dr. Doty recommends jotting down your feelings on paper and manifesting the change you want to bring to your life. 

3. Declutter your space
   

The space you live in has a direct impact on your emotional well-being. See it this way: a clumsy room mirrors the clutter of your life, and it feels messy and uncontrollable. Take time to put things in order and take charge. You don’t have to scrap every spot in the room. Start small. 

For instance, you could fix your working table or arrange your bed. Be mindful of things you no longer need: old clothes, paper, or anything recycled. Hand it over to someone you can find helpful.

4. Cook with your loved ones.

Whether you’ve had a rough day or need to feel cheerful, a warm, healthy meal can recharge your batteries. Cook comfort food—maybe rice and curry, pasta, or fried chicken—a dish that truly satisfies you. 

Image source: Freepik

Why not invite a friend over to share it? There’s something special about connecting with friends over a delicious, healthy meal, making it the perfect ambiance to unwind and talk about your day.

5. Pursue lost hobbies

We all have something(s) we always wanted to do but couldn’t. Call it a twist of fate or “I lost touch with it. The best time to do them is now. Though everything is acceptable, keeping as long as you’re happy, be open to exploring your quirks. Go beyond the usual hobbies like dancing, singing, or playing an instrument.

When I was younger, I collected chocolate wrappers (which are no longer in production now). Hobbies aren’t about public approval but about what brings joy to your mind and body. If you’re unsure what to pursue, embrace the freedom of being like a wanderer, exploring what relaxes your mind, no matter how odd.

6. Go to a retreat with your friends.

For most people, “taking a break” is packing backpacks and heading to mountains or beaches. After 3-4 days, you’re stuck in the same loop and routine. Do it differently next time. Join a retreat with friends.  Retreats offer fresh experiences with lessons you can keep for the rest of your life.

For example, you could go on a wellness retreat, a weight loss retreat, or a mindfulness retreat. Put in an effort, even if it’s going to the farther end of town. Some retreat programs might ask you to leave your digital devices behind, which may initially seem challenging. However, making the effort to disconnect can have remarkable benefits, as it will help you and your friends share an experience like never before.

7. Read and write a page every night.

Reading regularly has a relaxing impact that improves mental health overall and can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. You don’t have to make it feel like a chore. Start with reading what interests you.

Image Source: Freepik

Look out for local reading and writing communities in your areas. Many such communities have weekly get-togethers or monthly discussions, welcoming people from all spheres of life. When it comes to writing, don’t stress yourself. Don’t worry about grammar; nobody’s getting a grade. Write for yourself—an interesting event, a lesson you learned, maybe an encounter with a stranger. 

8. Take care of money

Money problems often come unannounced—rising energy bills, a tough time, or a desire to buy the latest iPhone or clothing; your finances could go all red if not managed. Having control over your finances can solve many of these issues, and, above all things, it provides you with a sense of security. 

Maintain a clear view of your priorities and what matters most to you. Saving or investing, do so with a clear goal in mind.

9. Shatter your limiting beliefs

“I can’t do this.”

“I’m not good enough.”

“I don’t have enough qualifications.”

We all say it to ourselves, often without even realizing it. But the truth is, these thoughts are not facts. They’re merely passing thoughts.

Take that first step towards something you’ve put off because you thought you couldn’t. New language? Waking up at 6 a.m.? Or saying “hello” to an old friend.  Reframe your thoughts with cognitive restructuring. Next time, don’t tell yourself, “You can’t.” Instead, “I’m fully capable of doing this.”

10. Ground healthy boundaries
    

We all have someone to answer to: work, family, or social obligations. Under all this pressure, we neglect ourselves and often commit to requests, even if we don’t want to. 

Know when to say no, when to step back, and when to prioritize your needs. Often, people have a hard time declining requests from close people. Here, you need to be firm and assertive. Before you answer, think about how it will impact your well-being.

Self-care activities shouldn’t break the bank. 

No doubt, the need for self-care activities is important in a time when everybody has digital access to you 24/7. You’re a text or a call away. There is pressure to do this or that. However, note that self-care activities shouldn’t empty your pockets. 

A $500 spa treatment might bring joy to one person, but for another, the happiness could come from saving $500 by cutting unnecessary expenses. Pursue activities that unload stress, not add it to your life. If you’re someone like me who goes on a spendthrift sprint, add a self-care budget to your finances so you know when to spend and when not to spend. 

Summary

The self-care activities we discussed demand only 10 minutes of your day. Which one to start is a challenge. Start with one that’s easiest for you. Remember, you need to be consistent. Take help from digital tools like Headspace, Calm, Pocket Guard, etc., to keep tabs on all facets of self-care. 

The post 10 Self-Care Activities to Boost Your Mood appeared first on A2Z Lifestyles.