Dr. Oz has long been known for his expert health and wellness advice. He also has a very big following of millions of viewers and readers of his daytime TV show, The Dr. Oz Show and his “YOU” books.

His television show and books cover many topics such as; losing weight, staying young, having a baby and being an overall healthy human being. He recently spoke with Prevention magazine about 8 simple habits that anyone can and should do in order to live a better and longer life. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine should make you feel better inside and out.

1. Stretch First Thing In The Morning: The benefits of stretching including, improved circulation and alleviated stress can be acquired in a mere 10 minutes right after you wake up. After stretching, you might also find that you have the energy for things that you didn’t think you had the energy for before you stretched.

2. Don’t Skip Breakfast: We have all heard this one many times before, but it is because it works. Your body needs food in the morning in order to start your metabolism. When your metabolism gets started, your body begins burning calories. Without fuel, your body will be at a standstill and will not burn as many calories as it should because it goes into starvation mode.

3. Show Up Early: Being late can create stress, which in turn can have a domino effect on the rest of your body like an increase in blood pressure. It is always good to show up at least 5 minutes early to wherever you need to be so that if an unforeseen event occurs, you will have a little cushion of extra time.

4. Get Moving: Instead of sitting sedentary, move around and keep your blood flowing. You don’t have to sweat and even become famished; simply doing the dishes, dancing, or sitting on a stability ball will do the trick.

5. Increase Intimacy: This doesn’t mean just sexual intimacy. Keeping in contact with friends, family and co-workers helps keep structure in our lives. When we have a social connection, certain stresses in life are more easily dealt with. 

6. Control Mindless Eating: I am very guilty of this one. When that mid afternoon slump hits, it is far too easy to grab a quick snack from the vending machine. Unfortunately, most of these snacks are full of sugar, salt, and a whole bunch of processed ingredients. Always have healthy snacks with you and remember to portion control.

7. Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff: Too many decisions and tasks can create unnecessary stress. Choose the tasks that are most important to you or that need to be done the soonest and make a list. Focus on that list and don’t let yourself worry about things that are not on that list.

8. Get Enough Sleep: This is another one we hear all of the time. Everyone should get at least 8 hours of sleep. Instead of only setting your alarm clock for the time you need to wake up, set it for the time you need to be in bed by as well. A regular sleep routine is important in keeping everything else in your body regular as well.

What do you think of these 8 habits? What other habits do you think are important to incorporate into our lives?

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