Living well is crucial if you want to enjoy a long, healthy life. Most of us know what we have to do to live better, yet few of us do what we know. If you want to live better, your best bets are:

1) Eat better. Eating better doesn’t necessarily mean eating like a rabbit. You should eat the food you enjoy, but make a conscious effort to include at least some fresh vegetables or fresh fruit with every meal. Drink plenty of fluids, and follow a healthy diet that includes reasonable portion sizes.

2) Add movement to your life. Whether it’s a casual walk every day at lunch, horseback riding a few times a week, or joining a friend at the gym after work, getting some exercise is important for reducing stress, keeping you at your best, and helping you avoid some of the most dangerous illnesses out there.

3) Beautify your surroundings. Living in a home you enjoy and working in a work environments that is attractive reduces your stress levels and makes you enjoy living and working that much more. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your home environment more attractive. A few extra cushions, some pretty fabric to cover that old couch, and some Votivo candles to add a delicious scent and soft light to your environment are all it takes.

4) Watch your indoor air quality. We spent the majority of our time indoors, but the average home’s indoor air quality is much poorer than the outdoor air quality of even the busiest cities. Poor indoor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory problems, and even some types of cancer. You can improve your indoor air quality by regularly ventilating your home by throwing open the window. You can also cut down on the amount of chemicals you use. For example, you can use scented Trapp candles instead of synthetic room fresheners. You can also add some plants to your home to naturally add more oxygen to your living space. If you allow smoking in your home, ban smoking immediately for your health’s sake.

5) Start putting money aside. Putting aside just 10% of your paycheck automatically every month gives you a nice emergency fund you can draw from in case of a crisis. This helps you enjoy less stress about money and allows you to start saving for those unexpected events in life.

6) Once in awhile, indulge yourself. Indulging yourself boosts your self-esteem and makes you feel terrific. Once in a while, buy yourself something nice, go browsing in jewelry stores, or take the day off. You deserve it.

7) Set some time everyday aside for you. Everyday, carve out 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or a full hour just for yourself. Do whatever you like most. It’s relaxing to re-energize, and it prepares you for the next day. If you have trouble stealing time for yourself, plan your “me” time in your planner, just as you would any important appointment.