Every father has a story. A story full of strength, resilience, and unwavering love. A story of sacrifice, hard work, and determination. But in the midst of all this great attributes, most fathers find it easy in neglecting their health and let it take a backseat which can be a problem.
Now, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men in the United States, on average, die 5 years earlier than women and die at higher rates from these three leading causes of death - heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries.
Further studies show that fathers are even more likely to experience stress, sleep deprivation, and unhealthy habits compared to mothers (APA, 2022).
We can agree that these statistics are a wake up call, highlighting the urgent needs for fathers to take a proactive approach to their health and here at Herbs of the Earth, we understand the unique challenges fathers face throughout their journey. In fact, our June’s “Pursue Support” campaign is a testament that aims to empower fathers by providing valuable resources and tools to help them live their best lives.
Today, we have warning signs to look at and 3 health rules that fathers shouldn’t break. So, let’s dive into it.
The first rule of health that fathers shouldn't break is to eat a balanced diet. Although this may seem common sense but a lot of individuals ignore this rule. Every father ought to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins as they constitute healthy nutrients to the body. In addition, it's also important to limit the intake of saturated fats, cholesterol, and processed foods high in sodium or sugar as continuous large intake can lead to high blood pressure and heart diseases. In addition, regular health check-ups with your doctor can help detect potential health issues before they become a problem. Spotting a disease early has a very high chance of being able to manage or cure it.
Quality sleep and mental health are deeply interconnected, each influencing and being influenced by the other. A lack of quality sleep can lead to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, and these conditions can, in turn, create sleep disturbances. According to the National Sleep Foundation, individuals suffering from insomnia are 10 times more likely to have clinical depression and 17 times more likely to have clinical anxiety.
Sleep is not merely a period of rest for your body. It's a crucial time for repair and rejuvenation. During sleep, your body works to support healthy brain function and maintain your physical health. Here are some tips to improve sleep quality.
Tips to Improve Sleep Quality
Create a restful environment: Your bedroom should be quiet, dark, and cool. Consider using room-darkening shades, earplugs, or a fan to create an environment that suits your needs.
Limit daytime naps: Long daytime naps can interfere with nighttime sleep. If you choose to nap, limit yourself to about 20 to 30 minutes and make it during the midafternoon.
Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.
Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health, and sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining both. So, make sleep a priority, and watch your life change for the better.
Managing stress and regular exercise are not just key to good health, they are essential for a balanced life.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week
But why is this so important?
Exercise is a powerful stress reliever. It produces endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. It also acts as a form of meditation, allowing you to focus on the present moment and forget about the worries of the day. Regular exercise can increase self-confidence, improve your mood, help you relax, and lower symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety.
Moreover, exercise can improve sleep, which is often disrupted by stress, depression, and anxiety. So, exercise has its great benefits and they can ease stress levels and give you a sense of command over your body and your life. Now do you want to get started with an exercise routine? Here are some tips to inspire consistency.
Tips for Incorporating Exercise into Your Routine
2. Start small: If you're new to exercise, start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the amount of time and intensity.
3. Make it a priority: Schedule your exercise time as you would any other important appointment.
4. Reach out to others: Exercise can be a fun social activity. Join a class, enlist a workout buddy, or participate in a team sport.
Remember, managing stress and maintaining regular exercise are not just about preventing health issues, but also about creating a higher quality of life.
As we wrap up, in celebration of Fatherhood this month, Herbs of the Earth has curated a limited edition wellness bundle. This bundle is designed to support strength, vitality, and optimal health, helping fathers at every stage of their journey to stay at the top of their game.
Let's remember that health is a lifelong journey. It's about making small, sustainable changes and sticking to them. It's about seeking support when needed and offering support when you can.
So, as we celebrate fathers this month, let's also celebrate their health. Because a healthy father means a healthy family.
What steps will you take today to ensure your health for tomorrow?"
