We often equate health with being free from ailments and diseases, but overall health is much more than that. It includes a state of mind that is free from constant worry, stress and anxiety. Often, people undermine the importance of mental health when it comes to staying healthy, but the fact is that you cannot be physically healthy without being mentally healthy as well.

Nutritionist Anjali Mukerjee recently dropped a video highlighting the importance of mental health vis-à-vis overall quality of life. In the video, she says, “Prioritising your mental health, emotional health is very very important for productivity, for leading a good quality of life and for your physical health. It’s time to prioritize YOU—mind and body.”Every level is important
She added, “Firstly, you cannot be healthy at any level if you’re not healthy at every level,” adding, “Health is a state of balance. It is a state that reflects physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social well-being.”
Finding solutions
She emphasised the importance of finding solutions to each and every problem, and said, “You need to find solutions. This single thing will help you a lot.” She also added, “Of course, it goes without saying that if you eat right,” while adding that one needs to do the basic things right as well. These include:
Eat adequate protein
While how much protein you need depends on your weight, you should try to include a pure form of protein with every meal of the day, that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pure protein can be found in foods like soya, paneer, eggs, lean meats and others. You can also include protein powders in your diet, after consulting your doctor.

Eat adequate good fats
These include ghee, butter, cheese, avocado, and many others. Try to include them (in a limited quantity) in your diet every day.

Sleep adequately for eight hours every night
While it might be difficult to do that everyday, aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality, undisturbed sleep every night. It is okay to let go off once in a while, but overall, stick to a regimented sleep schedule.
Exercise regularly
This one is an oldie, but goodie. If you want to stay healthy life long, then exercise should be part of your routine, and not just a one off activity you do. Unless you are trying to lose weight, pick any activity that works for you – walking, running, pilates, gym, aerobics or zumba, swimming, and do it consistently – at least five times a week. Most importantly, mix it up to avoid boredom.

Take your supplements
Most of the time, our diets are not enough to cover up our dietary requirements. For this, it is important to choose the supplements that work best for you. However, do not self-medicate. Consult a nutritionist, and make an informed decision.
On a parting note, Anjali added, “All these things will help you to create the right neurotransmitters in your body. A good state of mind does impact your physical health.”