The Dos and Don'ts Of Staying Healthy & Happy As A Dad #cp

Health and happiness go hand in hand. Unfortunately for busy dads, it's easy to let things slip in one or both of these areas. The good news is that it is possible to regain your footing again. Read on to find out how.

Do get some exercise on a daily basis.

Humans are amazing and adaptable creatures. In fact, we can adapt to all sorts of things, even modern life where we have to spend long swaths of time indoors, and stationary. However, this doesn't always mean that it is very good for us.

In fact, research has shown that getting even a little exercise on a daily basis can make a massive difference to all sorts of things, including physical and mental health. With that in mind, building in some activity into each day is vital. Even if it's just chasing the kids around the garden for half an hour after dinner.

Of course, you may want to go for a more dedicated activity than that. The good news is that there are plenty to choose from.  In fact, you can opt for the gym, or go running each day.

Although those dads with a more adventurous nature may prefer to get involved with an extreme sport instead. In fact, the health benefits of extreme sports are numerous, not to mention that they can be seriously fun and thrilling as well! Something that makes this, in particular a great option.

Do find a way of winding down for bed.

Did you know that one of the best ways you can safeguard your health and happiness is to get enough sleep? Now. I know this might sound like a bit of an ask when you have kids to take care of, as they don't always snooze through the night.

However, there are some actions you can take that will help you be more rested and get a better night's sleep, even if you do have to attend to a crying little one at some point. The first of these is to create a designated wind-down period in the evening. That is a time where you dim the lights, switch your phone to night mode, and consume more restful media such as mediation or some relaxing music.

The second, however, is even more practical, and it's to make sure that your bed is as comfortable and supportive as possible. In fact, did you know that you can get mattresses that are different firmness on each side now? Something perfect for those whose other half sleeps in an entirely different position.

Don't be afraid to speak out if you need some help.  

Of course, sometimes we have health or happiness issues that go beyond the basics of exercise, sleep, and good food. In fact, many of us at some point in our life will need help with our physical health, mental health or both.

Sadly, reaching out for this help can often be a challenge for busy parents, and especially for dads who think they have to be strong for their families. Of course, the most important thing is that they are healthy and happy for their families and themselves, and getting the help they need is central to this.


With that in mind, do not be afraid to reach out to your doctor if you have a medical or a mental health corner. Tray and stay away from Dr Goggle as well, as this will often only feed the fire of anxiety rather than quench it.

Do practice what you preach and eat a (mostly) healthy diet.

Now, most dads and parents, in general, will put in loads of time, making sure their kids eat healthy food. After all, (as we say to them all the time) you are what you eat!  However, all of this can so quickly go out of the window when it comes to their own diet. In fact, sometimes being a parent feels so busy that the thought of cooking a healthy meal from scratch for yourself rather than hopping on a take out app seems impossible.

Of course, there are some things that you can do to minimise your takeaway consumption, even when you are exhausted. One of these things is to prep and cook meals beforehand. Something you can do by just adding extra to when you are making a meal for the kids. Then you can freeze it and will have it there and ready to go after a quick nuke in the microwave!

Karl Young

Part-time daddy and lifestyle blogger. Father of 2 boys under 2. Golfer, scare-fan, tea-lover, traveller, squash and poker player. I write on the @HuffPostUK http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/karl-young/

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