In an effort to make sure that everyone is okay, many people end up putting themselves on the back burner. If this has been you, you know that this is not a good feeling. Furthermore, it’s not a way you want to live because it’s not sustainable. It doesn’t allow you to thrive. In order to put yourself first, it’s important to take a look at your health. Take control of your health one step at a time with these four tips.

Drink More Water

Make sure to drink adequate amounts of water every single day. Your body needs it to operate well. If you find that you’re in a position where you constantly need caffeinated beverages, sugar-filled juices, and sodas, it might be time for a detox. Cut up a few slices of lemon, put them in a few water bottles and drink lemon water throughout the day. This will allow you to flush your system of any toxins and give your body a reset.

Visit Your Physicians

Make sure that you visit your primary care physician at least once a year. During this visit, you should also get blood work done to find out information such your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar numbers. It’s also important to take note of anything that is abnormal. If you notice a lump forming on your skin, consider online dermatologist visits. If you noticed that you’re having back pain, consider visiting the chiropractor. Physicians are there to help you through different challenges you face physically. Do not delay when something is wrong. It’s better to be proactive than reactive.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

With every single meal, make sure there’s a variety of color on your plate. Include foods like avocados, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. Enjoy lots of fruit and fresh vegetables. As you incorporate more fresh foods into your diet, you’ll be able to feel the difference in your body. Plus, you’ll be able to get more nutrients out of your meals.

Monitor Your Stress Levels

Stress is a silent killer. It’s important to make sure that you regularly indulge in self-care. Exercise, massages and mental health counseling are experiences you can engage in so that you can keep your stress levels low. Don’t be afraid to decline invitations or assignments that you cannot handle. While you might have a busy schedule, make sure that you’re not constantly functioning in chaos. Make sure that you get a good amount of rest every single night.

While these four tips might sound easy, they are habits that can be difficult to cultivate. Take it one step at a time by implementing something small every single day. If you’re not used to drinking any water, you can start by drinking two bottles a day. As you master one task, continue to improve and rise to the next challenge. Before long, you’ll realize that your life has completely changed.