In the middle of our busy lives, achieving good health might feel like chasing a rainbow. We often dream of big changes, but what if the secret to a healthier version of you lies in the smallest actions – those easily ignored micro habits?
Yes, you read that right. Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. In this post, we’ll explore Micro Habits that have the power to transform your overall health, and surprisingly, they have nothing to do with food.
What is Micro Habits?
So, what are micro habits? It’s like a super small thing you do every day – a little action or behaviour that fits right into your routine. These habits are usually really simple, fuss-free, and work wonders for your well-being in the long run.
By regularly sticking with these micro habits, you can positively change different parts of your life, like health, productivity, or personal growth.
Sip, Sip, Hydrate Away
kick things off with a simple habit, which is often underestimated – staying hydrated. Swap that first cup of tea/coffee for a refreshing glass of water. Not only will your body thank you for the hydration boost, but it will also help you say goodbye to those tired feelings in the middle of the day.
Pro tip: Infuse your water with a slice of lemon or a splash of mint for a tasty twist. (Avoid if it doesn’t suit you, like me)
As you sleep, your body loses water through breathing, and you might wake up a bit dehydrated. Being dehydrated can make you feel tired and less focused, so it’s a good idea to drink water right when you wake up. Have a whole glass of filtered water to kickstart your day on a hydrated note.
Drinking water in the morning helps rehydrate your body after sleeping and keeps your digestion in top gear throughout the day.
Soak Morning Sunlight
Don’t underestimate the power of nature’s morning sunlight hug! Safely soak up some morning sunlight for only 10 minutes, within 30-60 minutes of walking, to boost vitamin D, which not only supports your immune system but also lifts your mood. A few minutes of gentle sunlight can set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Pro tip: Pair your sunlight session with a warm cup of tea or coffee for an extra cosy morning ritual.
Barefoot Walk on the Green Grass
Take off your shoes and connect with the earth beneath your feet. Walking on grass not only gives you a sensory treat but also provides a chance to ground yourself. The earth’s electrons can help neutralize free radicals in your body, contributing to improved well-being.
“Earthing” or “grounding” has been linked to reduced inflammation, improved sleep, and increased overall well-being.
Pro tip : Let your inner child shine and enjoy the cool grass under your toes. It’s a simple joy that brings you closer to nature.
Screen Breaks for Mindful Moments
In a world dominated by screens, taking micro-breaks from your devices can be a game-changer for your mental health. Set a timer for 15 minutes, step away from your screen, and breathe. Whether it’s a quick stretch, a glimpse out the window, or a brief mindfulness exercise, these micro-moments can help rejuvenate your mind and enhance your focus.
Reminder: Give your eyes a timeout – let them escape the digital glow for a mini-vacation!
Turn Your Phone to Greyscale Mode
Ever heard of this trick? If not, trust me, it’s like magic. Greyscale mode simply turns your smartphone screen all grey, ditching all the colours. This makes scrolling less tempting. If you find yourself glued to your phone too much, switch to greyscale mode. The steps vary for each phone; just Google how to do it for yours. On iPhone, open Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Color Filters (Toggle on) > Greyscale.
This cool habit is good for your mind and body – turn your phone into greyscale mode. This grayscale look tones down the flashy colours, making it easier to take a break from your phone and relax. Plus, it’s kinder on your eyes and might even help you sleep better.
Gratitude in a Jar
Transform your mindset with a micro habit that breeds positivity – the gratitude jar. Post a tiny note about something you’re grateful for each day and drop it into the jar. Over time, you’ll have a collection of uplifting moments to reflect upon, fostering a positive outlook on life.
Pro touch: Add a splash of colour to your gratitude notes – make your jar a mini-masterpiece of positivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey to a healthier lifestyle doesn’t always require drastic measures. By embracing these simple micro habits, you’re not just making changes but creating a sustainable, positive transformation too. So, go ahead – take those small sips, dance your way to fitness, and let the magic of micro habits unfold for a healthier, happier you!
Now, over to you: Which of these tiny habits are you eager to give a go to? Or perhaps which one is already a part of your daily routine?
Got any other micro habits up your sleeve? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.
Beautiful and useful for the new year is this post. This is so doable and sure to give more peace to one’s self. Happy 2024.
All nice tips that would definitely usher in a change in quality of life. It is so important to have a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, and mental wellbeing also.
This is a very useful article. Micro habits, like drinking water first thing in the morning or taking short walks after meals, lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle by fostering consistency and mindfulness in daily routines. These small yet impactful actions cultivate long-term wellness, promoting physical vitality and mental well-being with minimal effort.
I used to walk on grass barefoot when I was at my old place. Then I forgot after shifting. I wanted to walk barefoot but on tar I’m not sure is a good idea. Let me find where I can go barefoot.
Thanks, dear. Going to use the greyscale mode. I hope it will help avoid doom-scrolling on instagram.
Bang On..!!!
Sometime we consciously ignore micro habits and end up messing things. Ample ideas on micro habits you share in this blog are doable and can bring a real impact every day. I am making this as a checklist on my phone and keep track every day of the topics/tasks presented.
thank you so much for sharing this blog..!!!
This article offers practical advice on micro-habits that can significantly improve your health. It’s refreshing to see how small changes can lead to big results over time.
Your insights into micro habits for transforming health are insightful and practical. The emphasis on small, manageable changes is key for long-term well-being. The simplicity and clarity of your suggestions make it easy for readers to incorporate these micro habits into their daily routines. Thanks for sharing such valuable tips!
“Your blog on micro habits is a game-changer! 💪 The insightful tips on small, daily changes for a big impact are both practical and inspiring. Excited to incorporate these micro habits into my routine and witness the transformative effects. Thanks for the valuable insights! ❤
Honestly speaking , initially, I thought yet another blog telling us things we already know, but hey Anjali, turning the phone display to greyscale mode is a cool tip and so is the gratitude jar. Very doable, and very rewarding! Thanks!! I will also try walking on grass when the Delhi weather becomes more conducive.
I understand that you may already be familiar with some of these information, but it’s common for us to forget these things from time to time. Take it as a gentle reminder and yes, turning the mobile display in greyscale mode really works.
Great tips. I’ve been using greyscale mode at nights and can vouch that it helps you sleep faster. I will now give gratitude jar a shot. Thanks.
These are such simple habits that we can follow easily in our daily lives. I like walking barefoot on green grass, it feels so refreshing. I am going to try the greyscale mode. Thanks for these tips!
This year I wanted to start a habit of gratitude jar. I am happy that I can maintain my habit of no screen in the morning since last two years. Slowly implementing habits one by one.
Barefoot walk on the grass and on the beaches is something that gives me divine pleasure. It soothes me from inside out. But I lack the greenary here in Noida to go for a barefoot walk but whenever I get scope anywhere to walk barefooted on the grass I dont miss the chance. Drinking water especially in summers is something I love doing and I enjoy keeping me hydrated. Showing or practicing gratitude I learned very recently from one of my close friend, but this Gratitude Jar concept is new to me and I think I should go for it. Thank you Anjali for helping me think different and out of box with your gratitude advice. Stay blessed.
I certainly want to turn my phone into greyscale mode, going to search how to do it on Android. Ilike the idea of sunshine time and tea/coffee cup along with it. Hydration is a high point for me, and I certainly want to keep waking up early!
The idea of barefoot walks on the green grass immediately struck a chord with me; there’s something incredibly grounding and rejuvenating about connecting with nature in such a simple way. It’s a reminder to slow down, take a breath, and appreciate the beauty around us.
I too have recently started walking for an hour in the evening after the kids go to sleep. And also as you said, soak up the sun. I am making sure to be in the sun for at least 15 minutes max. Really good points who is starting now for better health and mindfulness.
thanks for sharing
These are some great tips, Anjali. I can personally vouch for hydration and screen breaks, which I follow as possible myself. Soaking the morning sunlight is also on top but I’m not able to do this all 12 months because of the harsh winters here. The sun is hardly out during those 2-3 months which makes it demotivating for me (I manage my workouts and exercise indoors then) Same for barefoot walking on grass. I’ve replaced the gratitude jar habit with a daily gratitude e-journal. The only thing I’ve never done from your suggestions is turning my phone to greyscale mode. I’ve already developed and stuck with the habit of turning off all app notifications and putting the phone on airplane mode every night before going to sleep. Will try this one too for sure now.
Great post, Anjali.
Very well said these small little things that actually makes whole lot of difference in making our life little better. Slowing the pace, enjoying every moment of life by spending more time with ourselves also helps in connecting better with our inner self.
I didn’t know about the grayscale mode. I am surely going to give it a try. You have shared simple tips that are so easy to follow. Thank you so much.
These are indeed micro habits and seems easy to get started. I am going to give it a try! And come back to this post if I forget something…
Wonderful ideas which will surely transform the health. Starting your day with a glass of water is the best tip.
I follow all these habits and more yet the depression monster washes away months of my life. I wish there was a magic formula to put an end to it. It has been 40 years since it started as postnatal depression and became chronic.
Thank you for these nice tips – my focus this year is health and it is good read these – a good reminder of things i need to focus on. Walking is a priority this year!
The Greyscale Mode trick is something that I am hearing for the first time. Lately, my screen time has increased because of the excessive scrolling and I find myself wasting time. I need to surely try out this method to deal with my mobile usage.
Anjali I can vouch for the changes these micro habits brought in me. Although I’ve been introducing them in phases I’m loving the changes in me and I can see that my body is thanking me
Love each and every tip and habit mentioned. Amongst them jounaling and lesser screentime is what I consciously follow among them, I guess getting my dose of morning sunlight is something that i need to work on in 2024.
Health and wellness are my greatest passions and why not , they are in fact my bread and butter! I keep preaching counseling small healthy habits to my parii, neighbours and friends on a daily basis.
Your grey scale tip was an absolutely new thing for me. Can’t wait to try it!
Very good tips! Love the Gratitude Journal and i think the grey scale could really change the amount of time i spend on my phone without even realising it! i like your idea of micro habits, easier to include in my everyday.
It’s really a wonderful post on the importance of health …when you start taking care of physical health..mental health also falls in better place
The gratitude jar is really a unique idea to keep good moments with you and, when needed, just open them. I loved all the small but mindful ideas to rejuvinate life once more in a great way.
You’re right. Its these small steps that make a big difference. We get morning sunlight in our balcony, but I never sit. I must do that more. And Gratitude Jar is another thing I would like to try. Thanks for these little tips.
Thank you for these amazing tips. These small steps can make a huge impact
I enjoyed reading your post Anjali… yes the habits are certainly micro but they are those little things that make the biggest difference… I can’t agree with you more.
thank you for introducing me to grayscale.. i had no idea about it until today… hopefully I will get into the habit of using it🤞
All lovely ideas… I would add starting and ending your day with reading something that’s not on a device – it works wonders.