Life comes with it's waves of challenges and it can be difficult to remain both mentally and physically sound through all of that. Although society is always offering up more products to consume, goals to achieve and ladders to climb, I truly believe that the source of health and happiness comes from within.I hope you all use this post as a resource for inspiration and tangible tips whenever you need it most!! I hesitated to make it so long but ya know what, once I got started... I just couldn't stop.

Eat More Plants

More people are opting for a primarily or fully plant-based plant-based diet and there's good reason. By adding more whole plants and less processed foods into your diet, studies have shown that it can decrease your risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more.

Move Your Body Regularly

We've become such a sedentary society and it's not doing us any favors! Find a form of movement (even if it's just going for long walks!) and stick with it daily.

Find Your Tribe

I recently read a quote that said we are the average of the 5 people we spend the most time with. The people we associate with either raise or lower our standards, and they play a huge role in they way we think and behave. Choose your group of friends wisely!

Get Enough Sleep

According to experts we should be aiming for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. I've found that the iphone bedtime feature really helps with setting reminders of when to go to bed and tracking your sleep time.

Drink More Water

Feeling tired or sluggish? Have a raging headache? You probably need more water. I try to start every morning with at least 16oz of plain or lemon water to jumpstart my metabolism.

Read One Book Per Week

The most successful (and dare I say intelligent) people in the world always seem to have a book in their hands. Reading stimulates the mind in ways that a movie just never can and it allows you to become more well versed in a variety of topics.

Do Something That Scares You Everyday

Growth does not happen within the boundaries of our comfort zone. Even if the opportunity you're given is scary, learn to recognize that feeling nervous is normal but the outcome will almost always outweigh those jitters.

Say No To The Right Things

Saying yes to new opportunities is important. Equally, saying no to things that do not serve you or someone you care about is also important. Your time is valuable. Use it wisely.

Let Go Of Grudges

Holding onto a grudge typically only leads to a mess of bad feelings within yourself, not the other person. It's best to forgive and move on. It doesn't mean you need to be friends with them... but holding onto hate never does any good.

Remember People's Names

The simplest act of remembering someone's name after an introduction can have a lasting positive impact. Not only does it help you build a healthy network but it also shows that you genuinely care about that connection.

Take Time To Meditate

We live in a noisy, busy society. We very rarely take time to simply be still and allow our minds time to relax without outside stimulation. Meditation is a game changer for reducing stress, creating a deeper understanding of self, and for mindfully moving through life's various challenges.

Give Back To A Good Cause

Not only is giving back good for the community but there have been numerous studies that show it's actually very beneficial for the giver. Your time, energy, thoughts and resources are valuable and such a gift to give to others. By choosing an altruistic cause, you not only increase the longevity of your life but you may also improve your physical and mental well being.

Say "I Love You" To The People You Care About

Life is fleeting and the exact time we have with the people we care about is unknown. Saying and expressing how much you love the people closest to you should be a top priority. Strong relationships are one of the biggest keys to a fulfilling life.

Treat Everyone With Kindness

Kindness promotes compassion, love and empathy. It strengthens a sense of connection and community. You don't have to be friend's with everyone but treating everyone with respect and kindness not only makes others feel better but it also makes you feel better as well.

Have Faith In Something Bigger Than Yourself

As a Christian, my faith in Jesus is the foundation of my self-worth and the way I approach everything from my relationships to my job. Even if you're not religious, having faith in something bigger can provide the feelings of hope, love, health and happiness that just aren't found in this world.

Believe In The Power Within You

Similarly to a faith in something greater, there is also so much power within us that many times we are unwilling to tap. We fill our heads and hearts with limiting beliefs and fear, instead of acknowledging that everything we need is already deep within us.

Keep Challenging Yourself

The only way to break out of this complacency is to continuously check in with how you can improve and blossom. By engaging in the right kinds of challenges we are able to push ourselves to unlock our greatest potential.

Start Swishing With Coconut Oil

Oral care is obviously super important as unhealthy gums have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. I shared an article with the 5 things I do to have a healthy mouth, one of which is oil pulling with coconut oil.

Take Time To Unwind

We should never let how busy we are define our worth. Similarly, taking well needed breaks are just as crucial to our health and happiness as taking rest days are for our workout routine.

Connect With People Outside Of Social Media

There are way too many forms of communication but let's face it -- nothing will ever replace an IRL connection. I find I'm having the most fun when I'm hanging out with people who make me forget to check Instagram.

Embrace Failure

Learning from our failure and bouncing back builds a sense of resiliency and allows us to continue to learn and grow. Failure is an important part of life. If you've never failed, you've never really tried.

Write Out Your Feelings

Journaling can be incredibly therapeutic. By writing down our deepest thoughts and feelings we are able to sort through the mess within our brain and gain clarity and insight.

Choose Quality over Quantity

Instead of doing more things poorly, it's best to focus on a few things you can do really well. Similarly, your time and resources are valuable. Choose to fill your life with things, moments and relationships of substance and meaning.

Take Breaks From Social Media

Social media detoxes are necessary. Practice being present and schedule time to be away from your screen. I promise it'll still be there when you get back.

Get Rid Of Your Scale

The number on the scale does not define you. In fact, it usually just leads to feeling of regret, guilt, or insecurity. Remove the scale and instead of focusing solely on the way your body looks, shift to focus on how your body feels.

Eat at Home More Often

Not only is this a great way to save money but it gives you more control over what you consume each day. Meal prepping is a great way to cut back on time but everyone should learn a few simple recipes.

Fill Your Fridge With Healthy Food

If you fill your home with junk food, you'll mostly eat junk food. Fill your fridge with healthy items (with a few treats of course) and you'll find that your diet will drastically change to be more healthy and mindful.

Be Kind To Yourself

We are our own worst enemy. Imagine the things we could accomplish if we looked in the mirror and could see the incredible, powerful, intelligent human staring back at us? Similarly to being kind to everyone, it's equally important to be kind to yourself.

Start Investing Your Money

You don't need money to be happy. However having financial security can drastically improve your quality of life and peace of mind. Start learning how to invest early and prioritize your financial health.

Don't Underestimate Your Value

Each of us is unique and that is our super power. Know your worth and stick to it. Don't question your greatness and the value you provide in all aspects of your life.

Clear The Clutter

There's a reason Marie Kondo is so successful. Clearing your home of unnecessary clutter can bring such a sense of peace and mindfulness to your life.

Don't Strive For Perfection, Just Start Now

Perfection doesn't exist and yet we're always seeking it. Unfortunately this can lead to so many things that we never start or finish in fear that it's not "perfect enough." There is no perfect time to do the thing you've been wanting to do. Just start now.

Pursue What You're Passionate About

Find out what sets your soul on fire and pursue it with all your heart. Even if it's hard. Even if the timing is rough. If you're truly pursuing your deepest passion the end result will be worth all the struggles to get there.

Listen To Music That Motivates You

Create some killer playlists and listen to them whenever you need some extra motivation and energy! Music is so powerful and a great way to stay inspired. You can check out my Spotify channel HERE.

Travel To New Places

The world is BIG and it is beautiful. Traveling exposes you to new perspectives and gives us a temporary escape from the day to day.

Take Hot Baths (With Essential Oil + Epsom Salt)

Treat yourself to a long bath to simply relax, reduce stress, meditate, ease sore muscles or just because it makes you feel fancy AF.

Make Your Bed Every Single Morning

Not only does it make your room instantly look better, it also starts the day off on the right foot. Even if you do nothing else that day, it's one small accomplishment that you can feel proud of.

Create A Time Capsule Wardrobe

Fast fashion is out. Sustainable and classic fashion is in. Instead of overcrowding your closet with trendy pieces that will go out of style, invest in high quality pieces that make you look and feel amazing -- and will stand the test of time.

Volunteer For A Charity

Volunteering has a range of benefits and can give you a sense of fulfillment and purpose. See "Give Back To A Good Cause" earlier in this roundup.

Spend More Time With The People You Love

If today was your last day, who would you want to be in it? It's too easy to push off the people we care about when we're so focused on our own lives. But at the end of the day, time is limited and relationships should mean much more to us than those "busy" items on our to-do lists.

If You Don't Know Something, Google It

Knowledge is power and lucky for us, we have all the knowledge of the world right at our fingertips! Stop letting your questions go unanswered and start moving through life with vivid curiosity.

Take Your Vitamins

Even if you're eating a healthy balanced diet it's important to recognize which vitamins you may be lacking. Consult your doctor and get a physical to see what you may be needing more of and then remember to take those supplements daily!

Limit Your Caffeine

Coffee is great and all but you shouldn't be relying on it to function. The key is moderation and recognizing if you've built up too high of a tolerance or if caffeine is impacting you in a negative way.

Give Your Liver A Break

Your liver is literally your body's best filtration system and it gets rid of all those nasty toxins we pour into our mouths. Be mindful of how much alcohol you consume and try not to drink in excess. Dry months are a great way to step back and give your body a healthy reset.

Spend Time Outside

Breathe that fresh air! Staying cooped up inside all day can be so un-inspiring. Spending time in nature can have such an amazing impact on your mood and creativity.

Wear Things That Boost Your Confidence

You don't have to wear things that you don't like just because they're trendy. Find power pieces that make you feel confident! When you wear something that makes you feel like a total knockout, it's easier to move that confidence to all areas of your life.

Create A Solid Skincare Routine

Our skin is our largest organ and it also is the first thing to show signs of age. Creating a solid skincare routine not only creates a mindful ritual but it really helps to boost confidence both for the present and the future.

Don't Let Someone Else's Opinion Define You

When we give others the power to define who we are and we believe them, we lose a huge part of who we really are. People will always talk but their opinion of you should never define how you feel about yourself.

Set SMART Goals

Serious about reaching your goal? You will have a better chance of getting there if you make sure your goal is Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely.

Have More Fun

Life is way too short to be serious and business focused all the time. Lighten up, smile, play and find healthy ways to have FUN. You deserve it! With love and light,

50 Ways to Add More Health and Happiness to Your Life