Nothing in this life is more important than our health. The rapid nature of the modern world makes it easy to forget that fact, until recently. In truth, the COVID-19 pandemic has given us a new appreciation for life. So, if you've been guilty of taking your body for granted, now is the time to regain control.

So, what can be done to promote good health for years to come? Here are five things you need to do.

Adopt Winning Habits

You might be thinking that you just can’t control your health 100% of the time.  Covid 19 and other diseases that sometimes appear as you age are evidence of that.  That may be true. Some people are more fortunate than others. Nonetheless, a strong foundation of good nutrition and exercise is vital. It'll make you feel better about yourself. And an added bonus, it also enhances how you look. But most significantly, it will improve your immune system, which in turn allows your body to fight off disease more effectively.  And, of course, your musculoskeletal health will improve as a direct result of giving your body the attention it needs. You will be physically stronger as you build muscle and bone density.  And don’t forget to stay hydrated and try to get a good night's sleep. Your body will thank you internally and externally in very noticeable ways.

Appreciate Your Mental Health

We now know that mental health is a telling feature of our overall health. So, you need to know what early cognitive decline looks like. This gives you the best chance of slowing the rate of regression. Depression and emotional disorders also require your full attention as soon as they become apparent. Putting yourself in a stronger frame of mind will aid other aspects of your life. Above all else, it's OK to seek support from the experts.

Stop Ignoring Symptoms

Early detection isn't only vital for your mental health. The body can often heal physical wounds, but some illnesses require intervention. Of course, as we age we have a higher probability of getting such a disease.  Those are just the odds.  So make sure to see your doctor on a regular basis and discuss any symptoms or changes you have observed.

There are many resources that can help you understand disease better.  For example, one disease that I’m sure many of us fear is cancer.  In this situation you need to understand what is cancer and how it can surface, so that you can seek a diagnosis ASAP. Even with illnesses that won't threaten your life, it's important to recognize the symptoms. That can range from identifying food allergies to knowing when running pains are something to worry about, knowledge is power. The body will alert you to problems. Listen to it.

Control The Controllable

Many aspects of your life cannot be controlled. But many can. Now is the time to quit smoking or putting yourself in dangerous situations. Now is the time to correct postural problems before they escalate in later life. Now is the time to start thinking about your smile and oral health. Now is the time to get your eyes and hearing tested. The sooner you regain control of the situation, the more likely you are to avoid discomfort and major health issues in later life. Do not forget it.

Try To Banish Stress

While your health can be negatively impacted by many sources, stress is one of the most common issues of all. Whether it's financial stress or emotional stress doesn't matter. It will harm your mental wellbeing, impact sleep habits, and subsequently harm your physical health. The latter can manifest as declining appearance or damage to your blood sugar levels and hormones. Avoiding stress won't make you immune from poor health, but it can certainly contribute.

These are some simple steps you can take right now to ensure you stay as healthy as possible as long as possible.  The faster you take action, the quicker you will see results.  It’s not just about living longer, it’s also about living better.