Wellness is just as important as good Health — in fact, it contributes to your overall wellbeing, and here’s why.

“Wellness” is a big part of our name — and our mission. At Mirabile M.D. Beauty, Health & Wellness, we do more than provide the latest treatments and proven health-related services to our patients; we recommend do-able tips you can achieve on your own.

Our 8 Favorite Health Tips

Here are a few of our favorites to adapt into your personal arsenal to be at your peak of health. Even better, most cost nothing except your time—and commitment.

1. Sleep on it.
While you might consider drowsiness the most negative aspect of not getting enough Sleep, research now shows shortchanging sleep can be one of the unhealthiest things we can do. Lack of sleep can compromise nearly every body function including the brain, heart and immune system. And new studies show that the saying is true: You snooze, you lose. Getting adequate sleep every night can actually help you lose weight.

Experts tell us that optimally, adults should try to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. A few ways to help bring on the zzzz’s include going to bed and waking up at the same time daily, even on weekends; winding down 45 minutes or so before hitting the sheets, which could include meditation and turning off all electronics; and avoiding heavy meals in the evening. If sleeplessness persists, an imbalance in your hormones may play a part. It may be time to consider Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy, which can address several wellness issues at every age but especially during peri-menopause and menopause.

2. Know your numbers.
Getting a regular check-up—which includes vital statistics like blood pressure, thyroid, cholesterol, blood sugars and BMI—can help your medical team at Mirabile M.D. Beauty, Health & Wellness uncover issues like heart disease risk, pre-diabetes, thyroid disorders and more. Be sure you’re current on any other necessary tests based on your age and history, which may include a mammogram, pap or prostate exam, and checking for skin cancer.

3. Stomp out stress.
For your emotional health, unplug for a day and turn off TV, phones and take a break from social media. What will you do with all your extra time? Listen to music (create an uplifting playlist), visit a museum or garden, hike one of our area’s many trails or grab a friend and treat yourself to a blissful spa treatment. One of our most popular skin rejuvenation procedures offered by our medical spa, MedCosmetic, is the HydraFacial M.D.® It’s corrective AND relaxing. You’ll leave refreshed and glowing!

4. Keep your mind sharp.
Research shows that testing your brainpower can help fend off dementia and other brain disorders. A few activities include learning a new language, taking music lessons or working on crossword puzzles.

5. Exercise your right to good health.
It’s a fact: getting regular exercise not only helps prevent issues like heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure and osteoporosis (especially with weight-bearing exercises), but it can also help combat depression. The rule of thumb is 20 to 30 minutes a day, at least three times a week. Can’t commit to a full half-hour? Break it up into several 10-minute sessions. No need to join a fitness center (unless you enjoy the camaraderie); walking, lifting weights or doing planks—once you have your doctor’s approval—can do wonders for your waistline and emotional wellbeing.

6. Don’t “weight” to get fit.
With obesity on the rise—for both adults and children—it’s more important than ever to make a pledge to reach and maintain your ideal weight, and sharing that lifestyle goal with the rest of your family. Studies show that reducing just 10 percent of your weight can have dramatically positive effects on your overall health. Need help in losing? Join our group of winners! We’ve helped hundreds of patients reach their ideal weight, and keep it off, through our physician-directed Medi-Weightloss® program. Our counselors will guide you all the way to success.

7. Set a laugh date.
When’s the last time you enjoyed several minutes of rollicking, thigh-slapping laughter? If you can’t remember, then it’s time to step away from the computer and schedule a time to see a comedy, watch baby goats romp at a petting zoo or call up a girlfriend for a night of “remember when.” Just be thankful there was no Facebook during your college years!

8. Be your own wellness advocate.
There’s a reason why you’re told to adjust your oxygen mask before helping others on an airplane. You can only be your best when you believe you’re worth taking care of your needs first—as hard as that is for most women to consider! And taking care of yourself includes learning about the latest breakthroughs in cosmetic and body treatments. For instance, one of the most exciting new procedures is ThermiVa®, a non-invasive treatment that helps woman dealing with urinary leakage, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and other issues. If you’re affected by any of these symptoms, make an appointment to discuss this non-surgical, no-downtime option.