Daily Habits to Keep
Tunisia’s vibrant culture, local foods, social customs, and climate already offer the right environment for leading a naturally healthy lifestyle. Here are nine (9) practical tips to make sure that they are included in your daily life:
1. Start Your Day with a Traditional Breakfast. Skip the processed cereals and embrace a typical Tunisian breakfast for energy throughout the day.
– A bowl of whole grain asida topped with olive oil or dates
– Eggs prepared with fresh herbs offer protein.
– Small portions of bread or use whole wheat bread for healthy fats and antioxidants.
– Bowl of fruit with plain yogurt
See our Recipe section for more suggestions.
2. Move Like Your Ancestors. You don’t need an expensive gym membership to stay active. Take advantage of Tunisia’s beautiful Mediterranean weather with:
– Morning walks along the beach
– Dancing to music in your living room
– Play traditional games like kharbga (while standing)
– Evening strolls in your neighborhood
3. Harness the Power of the Mediterranean Diet. Tunisia’s fertile land blesses us with many healthy ingredients. Focus on:
– Fresh vegetables from local farmers
– Lots of olive oil
– Legumes like lablabi (chickpeas)
– Fresh fish from coastal markets
– Lean poultry and occasional red meat
4. Master the Art of Mindful Teatime. Tunisians love their tisane. Transform your daily شاي (tea) ritual into a mindfulness practice:
– Sip it warm and slowly and appreciate the flavors. Add mint leaves for extra health benefits
– Use this time to disconnect from screens
– Share conversations and laughter with family and friends
5. Prioritize Quality Sleep. Despite our love for late-night gatherings, good sleep is crucial:
– Aim for 7-8 hours nightly (afternoon naps count too)
– Keep your room cool (especially during summer)
– Use traditional lavender or jasmine scents for relaxation
– Avoid heavy dinners and excessive café in the afternoon and evening.
6. Manage Stress the Tunisian Way: Traditional and modern stress-relief methods include:
– Practicing deep breathing during call to prayer times
– Visiting hammams monthly for relaxation
– Keeping up family ties and community bonds
– Taking regular breaks to enjoy the sunrise and sunset
7. Stay Hydrated, Naturally. Beyond plain water, incorporate healthy local drinks:
– Citronnade with fresh lemons
– Mint-infused water
– Fresh pressed pomegranate juice
– Avoid or cut out sugary sodas
8. Embrace Social Wellness. Tunisia’s strong social fabric is a health advantage:
– Walking and talking with friends
– Community activities and celebrations
– Volunteer work in your neighborhood civic organizations, schools, mosques or churches
9. Preventive Healthcare Habits. Combine modern medicine with traditional wisdom:
– Get at least one annul general health check-up at local health centers
– Use preventive herbs like garlic and turmeric in cooking
– Stay updated with recommended vaccinations
Conclusion
Health isn’t about following rigid rules or expensive programs. By blending Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage with modern health knowledge, you can create sustainable healthy habits that fit naturally into your lifestyle. Start with small changes, be consistent, and remember that good health is a blessing worth investing in.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
