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In a world where everything is done on the Internet, from shopping to working and from socializing with friends and family to even reading a book, quality family time and improving your family’s health may have fallen by the wayside. There are many ways that you can improve the health of your family, mental and physical. And, let’s not forget our four-legged family members!
Mental Health: Have the Difficult Conversations
The best way to improve the mental health of your family is by having the difficult conversations upfront with your kids, especially about any kind of drug and alcohol use. One of the biggest questions professionals get all of the time is, “is addiction genetic?” The answer to that one isn’t easy, but if you have a history of addiction in your family, then it’s important to be honest and open with your children about it. Most importantly you want to create an environment in which your kids feel comfortable talking to you and can ask tough question or get the support and help they need should the worst happen.
Physical Health: Exercise Together
Becoming healthy should include exercising together as well. Try taking walks as a family after dinner in the evenings or even joining a gym on the family membership plan. Not only will you be getting healthier physically, it will help you bond as a family unit as well.
Health Improvement for Your Canine Pal
Most people already consider their pet a part of the family, but many pet owners don’t include them when they decide to work together to become a healthier unit. Often when it comes to finding information to improve the health of your pet, the information given is conflicting at best. Questions such as “can dogs eat bananas?” are met with ten different answers. The best way to improve the health of your pooch and get your questions answered at the same time is by taking your dog in for regular checkups with your vet. And, next time you take the kids out for a hike or afternoon outside take your dog along – everyone will feel healthier!
Emotional Health: Spend Time Together
The emotional health of your family is just as important as the mental and the physical. Improve your emotional health by spending time together. It doesn’t have to be something expensive and elaborate. For example, a picnic in the park on Sunday afternoon with your dog in tow can lead to conversations that will improve your emotional health as a family. Too cold to go outside? Try curling up on the couch and watching movies together or pull out those board games and have a game night. You would be surprised how shutting down the electronics and ramping up the family fun can bring you together.
These are just a few of the tips out there for helping you improve the health of your family emotionally, mentally and physically as well. Don’t forget to include Fido in your health improvement goals and soon the whole family will be on the right path to good health.
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This content is sponsored by Anne Davis.
Photo: Shutterstock