Weve all heard it before. That phrase healthy lifestyle has been bandied about for years, but what exactly does it mean and how do we achieve it?

Everyone knows the obvious traits displayed by someone who takes care of themselves and is considered healthy. They doesnt smoke; they maintain a stable weight; they eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and fiber, and, of course, they exercise on a regular basis.

Alas, there also are additional variables involved. A healthy person tends to manage their stress better, seemingly always gets a good nights sleep, doesnt overindulge or doesnt drink too much, theyre active basically, a healthy person adheres to the old adage: everything in moderation.

It seems like a heavy burden having to juggle and maintain all those variables in our hustle bustle world; but the good news is, you dont have to make drastic changes. In fact, drastic changes almost always lead to failure. The real secret is to implement small changes take the stairs, add fruit to your cereal, have an extra glass of water, skip dessert, avoid fried foods, or maybe just simply say no to seconds.

There are numerous things you can do to create a healthier lifestyle, but rule No. 1 is always just move! And, truthfully, that doesnt necessarily mean going to the gym, exercise is movement.

Heres why you need to move more: Whether it is a family bike ride or running a 10K, activity is considered exercise and when you move more than normal, it counts. It is terrific if you can spend time in the gym meaning you are in there sweating, you are in the zone reaching your target heart rate, and/or doing something that strengthens your body.

But it doesnt always have to be that way. Moderate physical activities such as gardening, washing the car, walking the dog, or even just playing outside with the kids can make a real difference.

The benefits of moving more:

The great thing about moving is that just a few minutes a day can have lasting benefits, many of which you may not even be aware of. Just some of the benefits include: Reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes; Improves joint stability; Increases and improves range of motion; Helps maintain flexibility as you age; Maintains bone mass; Prevents osteoporosis and fractures; Improves mood and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression; Enhances self-esteem; Improves memory in aging populations, and Reduces stress.

So isnt it time you got off that couch, pushed yourself away from your desk, grabbed the remote and shut off the TV, or log off Facebook or Instagram. Truthfully, even if you opt for small incremental changes and focus on being healthy to start, you will experience some pretty significant health benefits.

For now, work on mastering some of the healthy habits mentioned and before you turn your focus to weight loss, (next article!). Go ahead; get started on that road to a long, healthy, and enjoyable life.

Cary Sochin is the owner/operator of several local fitness facilities:

clubX fitness, 1236 S. Dixie Hwy. in Coral Gables; 305-667-3539, and VibeClass Fitness SoMi, 5885 SW 73 St. in South Miami; 305-397-8398.

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How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle (Part 1) - Miami's Community Newspapers