Shop NowDaily Health Tips update for June 30:
Nearly 31 million people in this country live by themselves, so if you think you’re alone, think again.... well, you are alone, but you're not.... you get the point! Many people enjoy the benefits of an adventurous single life, but others can be prone to depression, alcoholism or just plain loneliness. Here are some great ways to embrace your solo lifestyle and make it as healthy a choice as possible.
- Is living alone right for you? Sometimes people are forced into a solo living situation and that isn’t always a good thing. Potential risks could be increased alcohol consumption or slumping into depression. If you have a propensity toward either of these, you might reconsider living alone.
- Copy your keys. One of the advantages to living with someone is that you always know you have a way into your house. Make sure you copy your keys and give them to a trusted friend or neighbor or keep a set in your car or office for emergency use.
- Won’t you be my neighbor? In certain parts of the country it’s considered obtrusive to befriend a neighbor. Be respectful of your neighbor’s privacy, but don’t be afraid to say hello, welcome a new neighbor with a goodie basket or lend a helping hand once in a while.
- Keep a schedule. It’s important to set a routine for yourself. It not only forces you to use your time more efficiently, but it also creates accountability. If something were to happen to you, you can bet your 6 am walking group would notice if you didn’t show up.
- Pack your social calendar. Although single people are more likely to be involved in community events and socialize with others than their married counterparts, it’s still important to make a concerted effort to schedule a full boat of events to keep your mind busy.
- Turn off the tube. Instead of relishing in alone time, single folks are more apt to turn on the television to create noise and activity in their house. The problem is that they’re also more apt to eat meals there. Statistics say that people who dine in front of the television are likely to eat 300 more calories than those who do not.
- Enjoy the silence. The old adage is that silence is golden, so in a world filled with smart phones, laptops, collapsing economies and political melee, enjoy your time without interference from noisy kids and the world around you. Take this time to meditate, read or just be with yourself.
Source: prevention.com
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