Being at the cottage this summer, surrounded by quiet beauty, I am reminded about how few things we need to be healthy and happy. I am away from the hustle and bustle, schedules and deadlines, and the “stuff” I deem so necessary to get through my days, and I see how living simply means living healthy.

Here are the top 5 areas to focus on to live a simple and healthy life:

1. Water- Drink enough water to avoid thirst. This usually translates into 8-10 cups per day. Drink most of your water away from meals so as not to dilute the gastric juices when digestion is necessary. Being IN water is also very healing and cleansing for the body. Swim in a lake, the ocean, or in a pool as often as you can.

2. Whole food- Eat cleanly. Eat as many foods as possible that contain only one ingredient (eg. apple, brown rice). If you are eating prepared foods, eat only foods with short lists of ingredients you can understand. Only eat until you are satisfied-never full. Eat every 3-4 hours.

3. Movement- Exercise daily. This does not mean you must go to the gym everyday if you do not enjoy it. This means taking the stairs instead of the elevator; walking or biking to the store instead of driving; gardening; playing tag with your kids. Perform activities that put a smile on your face.

4. Quiet Reflection- Commit 5-10 minutes every day you can to sitting back and simply thinking. Asking yourself the following questions may help: “Am I happy?” “How do I feel today?” “Am I taking good care of myself?” Taking the time to reflect will help you live a more meaningful and present life.

5. Love and Connection- Surround yourself with the ones you love and cultivate deeper relationships with them. When is the last time you asked a loved one how they really are? Being emotionally close and open with those around us does so much good for the soul.

Focus on these things as much as possible and you will be on your way to living a beautifully simple and healthy life.