8 Ways to Be Productive and Improve Your Health

How you spend your time is so important, and can affect every aspect of your life. Whether you have more free time on your hands, or want to make better use of your day, there are several ways you can work to improve your health mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Being productive does not always mean having a “hustle” mentality, nor about being constantly busy. I do think it means being intentional with your time, and striving to do things that improve some aspect of your life, or help you achieve a specific goal. Here are some ways you can use your time to benefit overall health:

Challenge Your Mind

In a world surrounded by screens and instant answers, it’s easy to let your mind go on auto pilot. I have found that my attention span is starting to shrink and I can’t focus the way I used to. A good way to productively spend your time is taking a break during your day where screens are set aside and you do something that challenges your mind. For me, simply reading a book allows me to do use different processes than say, scrolling through Instagram. If you like doing brain puzzles or games, watching documentaries, or learning a new skill, these are all things you can try, that will help you get out of a screen rut.

Challenge Your Body

I’m not saying you have to go on this whole weight loss journey, or try to become a fitness enthusiast. At 37 weeks pregnant, let me tell you if I even do a single squat I will not be getting back up. And no, I don’t plan on drastically altering my diet, or letting go of sugar right now. However, challenging our bodies in some way can help us feel so much better, both inside and out. A brisk walk or jog, a workout video on Youtube, a pushup challenge with a family member, or even learning a TikTok dance (I almost passed out the other day trying to do one but WOW so fun) are fun ways to get moving! Do something that challenges you to be active.

Challenge Your Spirit

Any time spent in the Word is never wasted time. Getting a solid bible reading routine if you haven’t already is a great way to spend your time well, and is so beneficial! If you are looking for somewhere to start, I have been reading Women of The Word by Jen Wilkin and HIGHLY recommend. In her book, she teaches people a detailed method of comprehending, interpreting, and applying scripture using a multi-step process. It takes time. It takes discipline. But that is exactly why I love it so much. If you want to take a deep dive into really understanding what the bible is saying, definitely pick up this book.

Care for Yourself

What makes you feel like you? It isn’t selfish to care for yourself. If you really need a nap today, try to make it happen. Ask someone to rub your feet. Forgot to eat? Go get a snack. Eating a little to much junk lately? Go get a fruit. Listen to your favorite song, do a fun activity, or just lay down for a second. Scented candles and face masks are a good time, but any simple act that helps you feel centered is all you need.

Care for Someone Else

Being kind to others in turn helps you feel better too. Not that we should do things for other people in order that we might receive something back, but it really does improve your mood. Use your words– send a text, letter, or phone call of encouragement to someone. Let them know you care. Do a random act of kindness for someone in your household– make their bed, make them their favorite snack, or offer to clean and let them take rest. This is such a good way to spend your time AND make someone’s day.

Clear Your Mind

Call it meditation, quiet time, relaxation, whatever you want. Our minds are always busy busy busy: Constant inner dialogue, a list of things we need to do, etc. Take even five minutes of sitting and just being. still. It might feel weird at first, but let it feel weird. Breathe deeply. Think of three things you are thankful for, and then just rest in the quiet. This act is so simple but leaves you feeling so refreshed.

Clean Your Space

Nothing makes you feel better than looking around at a clutter-less space. For some of us (yeah, me) this is not so easy. If you don’t have time to commit to a cleaning overhaul, choose one area. I do my bedroom or desk area usually. Set a timer for whatever interval you have. You will be so surprised at how much you can get done in 15 or 20 minutes. Usually you’ll find once you start, you get on a roll and the momentum carries over longer. Do what you can for the time limit without stopping. Sit back and admire your handiwork.

Create Something New

You don’t have to consider yourself artistic to be creative and make something. Maybe you are musical, like to draw, paint, or write. Maybe you like to work with your hands. There is something so satisfying about creating something, so take some time and DO a thing. Write a song, a poem, a story. Make some art for your room. Make a video for social media. Build a fort, start a journal, make a another Vine compilation to share with the world (and send it to me, I seriously cannot get enough of those). It’s not about perfection, but the action of creating something that is yours.

These are some simple ways to enjoy your time, while making the most of it. I hope you try adding some of these ideas to your day. Let me know what else you like to do in your free time!