1. Don’t Exercise Every Day
Going to the gym without a break sounds heroic, but it tires even elite athletes. A study in Medicine & Science in Sports showed that training 4 days a week yields better long-term results than 6: less exhaustion, more motivation. Vary the intensity and duration — your body and mind will thank you.
2. Exercise When You’re Exhausted
Feeling tired after work? It’s the perfect time to move. According to another study from the same journal, 30 minutes of moderate exercise instantly boosts your mood and energy levels while improving your aerobic capacity over time. The treadmill might just be your savior.
3. Eat Fats (Yes, Seriously)
Forget the fear of fats — they’re pure energy. The hypothesis that carbs are more fattening than fats is gaining traction since Time blasted it on their cover. A bit of avocado or nuts isn’t just healthy, it keeps you full.
4. To Lose Weight, Eat More
Skipping meals triggers calorie cravings. Fill up properly in the morning — a solid breakfast prevents snacking and overeating later. Eating more now could mean fewer pounds tomorrow, says the science of hunger.
5. Eat Hot Food to Cool Down
Hot tea in the summer? People in India and Morocco know it well. Acta Physiologica explains: the heat makes you sweat, and the sweat cools you down as it evaporates. It seems crazy, but your body understands this better than you do.
6. Don’t Always Do What Your Partner Likes
Doing everything with your partner sounds romantic, but it’s exhausting. The Journal of Marriage and Family warns: forcing yourself into hobbies you don’t enjoy causes long-term unhappiness. Skip chess if it’s not your thing — you’ll save your relationship.
7. Don’t Brush Your Teeth After Eating
Brushing your teeth right after a meal damages your enamel — the acid from food rubs against your teeth. Wait 30 minutes, dentists advise. It’s odd, but it protects your smile.
8. Watch Sad Movies to Be Happy
Had a rough day? Skip the forced comedies. Psychologists at Ohio University say sad movies help you put your problems into perspective and appreciate what you have. A good drama could be your instant therapy.
9. Pay with Cash to Avoid Gaining Weight
Cards make us impulsive — we know this from online shopping. A study in Obesity found that children spend more on junk food with plastic. The weight of cash curbs cravings — try it at your local store.
10. Take the Subway to Work
The car seems like a luxury, but traffic jams destroy your mood and mental health, says psychologist Susan Charles. The subway, though crowded, avoids that silent stress that slowly drains your happiness. Trade the steering wheel for a ticket.
