Healthy living is a choice you make every day. It’s not just about eating well and exercising regularly, although those are important components.

Taking control of your health requires a proactive approach to wellness that involves both physical and mental well-being. Here are ten simple steps you can take to start living a healthier, happier life.

Step One: Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential for optimal health. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep a night to function well.

Sleep deprivation can affect your mental and physical health, leading to increased stress levels, decreased immunity, and impaired cognitive function. Develop good sleep habits by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a peaceful sleep environment.

Step Two: Drink Enough Water

Water is essential for good health. Without enough water, your body can’t function optimally. Water helps to regulate body temperature, remove waste, and transport nutrients.

Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, more if you’re physically active or in a hot climate. If you find plain water boring, try adding a touch of lemon or lime or infuse it with cucumber, mint, or berries.

Step Three: Eat a Balanced Diet

You are what you eat. Literally. Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is essential for good health. Avoid processed foods, added sugars, and excess salt.

Eating a balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your mental health.

Step Four: Move Your Body

Your body was designed to move. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, improve your sleep, and boost your mood.

Find a physical activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Step Five: Manage Your Stress

Stress is a part of life, but too much stress can take a toll on your health. Chronic stress can lead to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression.

Find healthy ways to manage your stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or simply taking a walk in nature. Make time for activities you enjoy and try to limit exposure to stressful situations when possible.

Step Six: Connect with Others

Humans are social creatures. We need social connection to thrive. Make time for socializing with family, friends, and colleagues.

Join a club or group that interests you, volunteer for a cause you believe in, or simply reach out to others with a phone call or text message. Social connection can help reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall well-being.

Step Seven: Take Care of Your Mental Health

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, can have a significant impact on your quality of life. If you’re struggling with your mental health, reach out for help.

Talk to your doctor, a therapist, or a trusted friend or family member. There is help available, and you don’t have to suffer alone.

Step Eight: Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking

Alcohol and tobacco are two of the most significant risk factors for poor health.

Drinking alcohol in moderation (up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men) is unlikely to cause harm, but excessive drinking can lead to a range of health problems, including liver disease, cancer, and mental health problems. Smoking is also a major risk factor for cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Step Nine: Practice Good Hygiene

Good hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of illness. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoid close contact with sick people if possible.

If you’re feeling sick, stay home to avoid transmitting your illness to others.

Step Ten: Get Regular Check-Ups

Prevention is the best medicine. Regular check-ups can help you catch health problems early when they’re most treatable.

Talk to your doctor about how often you should have a physical exam, and be sure to follow their recommendations for cancer screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies. Don’t forget to schedule regular dental and eye exams as well.

Taking control of your health doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on your health and well-being.

Start by incorporating these ten steps into your daily routine, and enjoy the many benefits of good health.