Staying Fit & Healthy

In the past rainy and cold months, it was hard to get outside when all we wanted to do was to stay at home and be cozy tucked in our beds and couches. Now as spring is slowly approaching and flowers are starting to  bloom, the motivation to go out and move is also coming back. For some internationals, this was the first time experiencing such dark and cold weather, and many weren’t aware of how much it could impact both physical and mental health. If you’ve been feeling this way, you’re not alone and we’re here to help you get back on track!

Time to get out and start moving

We all know that eating and staying healthy is very important for us, and now, as the days are getting longer and warmer,; it might be easier to pick up a new hobby, maybe a new sport? Sports can help reducing stress and anxiety, boost your confidence and of course also has a lot of health benefits. On top of that, starting a new sport could be a great way to meet new people as well!

In Leiden you can find a big variety of sports to practice, be it individual or teams sports. Joining the gym is for example always a safe option when you want to plan your own schedule and be flexible when to exercise. As for team sports, Leiden has a large offer: from basketball, to football, to rugby or ice hockey. You would not only be joining a team but also a social group that organizes social gatherings occasionally. If you prefer being competitive on your own, you could try out bouldering, badminton, tennis or, for a more relaxing sport, yoga.

You are what you eat

People say, "You are what you eat," so maintaining a balanced diet is just as important as staying active. A healthy meal includes plenty of fresh, unprocessed foods, with a focus on vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins. Small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for water, eating more fibre-rich foods, like nuts, grains or vegetables, and reducing processed snacks can make a big difference in your overall health.

Hydration is just as essential. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps your body function properly and supports digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. Making small but consistent choices in your diet can lead to lasting health benefits.

Oftentimes, Dutch health insurance offer information on healthy lifestyle on their websites and apps. For instance, at Zorg en Zekerheid you can find useful information and even healthy recipes in case you are looking for new ideas. Make sure to check your insurer's website!

That said, keeping track of all these different nutrients daily can be overwhelming. So, instead of opting for quick, unhealthy frozen meals, here are our favourite recommendations of different healthy restaurants in Leiden.

• Start the day with a healthy breakfast at ROOS Taste and smile ! From homemade granola to well-filled rolls, using fresh organic and local products, you can find a healthy breakfast for every breakfast type, sweet and salty! In case you are looking for a treat during the rest of the day, the place got you covered all day long.

• At Logica a 100% organic menu is waiting for filled with delicious vegetarian and vegan meals, perfect for a healthy lunch break during the day! The menu is adapted to the current available vegetable to offer the freshest meals possible.

• For a quick and healthy meal, here at Leiden Internation Centre, Eazie is always a good option. Put your meal together by choosing exactly what you want in your plate! Do you prefer rice or noodles?

• From breakfast to dinner, at Bar Lokaal  you can expect a delicious and fresh dishes the whole day. With their motto ‘simple but good” you don’t have to worry about finding something you like on the menu because there is something for everyone.

Your mind is your best friend

Last but not least, your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being. If you’re taking care of your health but still don’t feel your best, seeking support from a mental health professional could be a helpful step. If you are not sure where to start, you can have a look at our partner BrightMind Practice. For both Dutch and international clients, Roy provides support to help you clear your mind and to help you feel your best again!

To round it all off, prioritizing your well-being while living abroad means finding balance in staying active, eating well, and seeking support when needed. We hope these tips will help you feel your best and make the most of your experience here in the Netherlands.