World Health Day 2021: Towards a healthier life

By Sophia Dritsa

April 7, 1948, was the day that the World Health Organization was 'born'. Since then, humanity has made important steps on achieving disease elimination as well as illness prevention. Coronavirus, however, came quite unexpectedly to shed light on the gaps and the inequalities of these attempts. The world is not exactly an equal place, and WHO is starting a campaign to create a fairer and of course, healthier, world. During the pandemic, as WHO indicates, there were people who had better access to health services, than others. The pandemic has disproportionately affected people already socially and economically disadvantaged. Therefore, it is crucial that more people have access to quality health care when they need it. This year's theme is to ensure that everyone, everywhere is able to exercise the right to good health.

And talking about our right to good health, now that most of us are working from home, there are some risk factors we need to take into account. Due to social distancing and quarantines, we live an even more sedentary life than before. We stay home a lot, and screen time has increased considerably. These conditions, unfortunately, bring increased chances of excessive eating/unhealthy eating, little or no physical activity, and perhaps they may lead to weight gain or depression. Most experts agree that a healthy lifestyle pertains to keeping both physical and mental health in balance. Perhaps it is time for some improvements. Few very simple steps can help you improve your overall health. What better opportunity than world health day to start making some changes. Here are 6 simple tips that can assist you to boost your health, mental and physical:

1. Drink lots and lots of water. Water lubricates our joints, delivers oxygen to different body parts, prevents kidney damage, helps with digestion, weight loss, etc. Have a large bottle around and take regular sips throughout the day. It is good for you - end of the story.

2. Eat healthy meals as much as possible, and try not to skip breakfast. Reduce sugar and fat and increase fiber and protein. It is not only good for your body, but also for your mood. There is evidence that diets with a high glycemic intake may ignite symptoms of fatigue or even depression. A delicious creamy vegetable soup or a fresh fruit salad with some low-fat yogurt is always a good idea.

3. Increase physical activity. Walk, even inside your house, from room to room. Of course, it is much better to walk outside, take a stroll in the country, breathe some fresh air. However, if this is not possible due to a lockdown or other reasons, do not stay idle; your body needs exercise, and you can find some reliable workout videos on Youtube. If you are relatively new to working out, the word 'beginner' is a must during your search. Make sure the video always begins with a warmup and ends with cooling down. You want to exercise properly, not burn your muscles.

4. Sleep a good sleep. Usually, guidelines advise that adults should sleep between 7 and 9 hours per night. Poor sleep is linked to diseases like obesity. Good quality sleep has many benefits including a properly functioning immune system, maintenance of a healthy weight, better memory, reduced stress levels, etc.. Therefore, if you have sleeping problems, you should definitely ask your physician for help.

5. Your emotional health matters. In a situation like this, it is common to experience stress, anxiety, uncertainty, or fear. Learning to cope with pandemic-related stress is very important. Do not forget that mental health is equally important to your physical health. Assess it regularly, and talk to a mental health expert, if you need to.

6. Visit Greece as soon as you can. Whether you do it to cross a dreamy, but still affordable, holiday destination off your bucket list or you wish to come for the all-year-round sunshine, the spectacular beaches, the remarkable history, and the world-famous archaeological sites, or even for the delicious food and amazing hospitality, Greece can surely give you a vacation to remember, and many great stories to tell your friends.

Whatever you do, remember to take care of yourself first. We cannot carry on in life if we keep on ignoring our needs and the things that make us feel good. Therefore, treat yourself well. Stay healthy, stay safe.

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