The Power of Small Habits: Walks and Conscious Food Choices

Maintaining consistency in health goals can be challenging. A practical solution involves incorporating postprandial walks into your daily routine. These short walks taken after meals can substantially improve digestion, regulate glucose levels, and enhance overall well-being. Adding these walks is a step in the right direction, both literally and figuratively.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Progress (Sader) and the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) have launched the social media campaign Consume from the Field, Live Happy (Consume del Campo, lives happy). This initiative promotes a national diet based on fresh, healthy, and locally produced foods. Such a diet not only benefits physical health by helping prevent chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes but can also be up to 40% cheaper than a diet based on ultra-processed foods. The campaign relies on healthy and sustainable food guides for the Mexican population from 2023.

Benefits of a Local and Fresh Diet:

• Prevention of chronic diseases.
• Lower economic cost.
• Support for local producers.
• Respect for the country’s food culture.
• Environmental protection.

Mental Health DIY: Self-Care Strategies and Emotional Well-Being

Well-being extends beyond physical health. Preventive health and emotional balance are crucial for a healthier and more fulfilling life. Mental Health America (MHA) has published its action guide for mental Health Month 2025, featuring a list of 31 tips to improve mental health. These resources promote a proactive approach and mental health DIY (do it yourself), empowering individuals to take concrete steps for their well-being.

Key Recommendations for Mental Well-Being:

• establishing healthy limits: Recognizing and communicating your boundaries is essential to protect your energy and emotional well-being.
• Connect with nature: Spending time outdoors, even briefly, can reduce stress and improve mood.
• Conscious movement: Finding a physical activity that you enjoy, whether walking, dancing, or practicing yoga, has a positive impact on mental health.
• Sleep hygiene: Prioritizing a restful sleep, maintaining regular schedules, and creating a favorable atmosphere for sleep are crucial.
• Creative expression: Activities such as writing, painting, or listening to music can be powerful tools to process emotions.
• Create a calm space: Designate a place at home for relaxation and disconnection.
• Rest and recovery: Understand that rest is a necessity, not a luxury, and schedule breaks to recharge.
• Seek support: Recognize that you are not alone and that there are various sources of support beyond formal treatment, such as networks of friends, family, or peer groups.

These recommendations highlight the inseparable connection between physical and mental health and daily habits. Small actions, maintained consistently, can lead to significant improvements in the quality of life.