Let's face it, when you hear get fit, exercise is probably one of the first things that pop into your head first. There are good reasons for that, since staying physically active is directly linked to better health outcomes for many people. However, there is a lot more to being fit than exercising. These five tips will help you improve your overall fitness levels without telling you to move more. 

1. Get a Good Night's Sleep

Most adults need to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night to function optimally. That means every night, both on the weekends and weekdays. If you are like most adults, this seems like an impossible task. However, there are a few simple things you can do to make getting a good night's sleep easier.

For example, take a few minutes to learn about optimal sleeping temperature. Simply keeping your bedroom a few degrees colder may help you fall asleep faster and stay that way. That's because cold temperatures generate signals within the body that it is time to slow down and rest. You might also find that eliminating excess light in your bedroom and staying off tech devices in the hours before bed is helpful. 

2. Eat a Balanced and Colorful Diet

One of the best things you can do for your overall health and wellness is to eat a balanced diet that provides a wide range of nutrients. Unfortunately, the abundance of processed foods on grocery store shelves makes this harder than it sounds. Sticking with whole foods and focusing on plant-based meals is generally a good bet. Look to the Mediterranean diet for inspiration and recipes that incorporate some healthful ingredients. 

You may have also heard the expression eat the rainbow, which simply means choosing foods with a wide range of colors. This ensures you get the unique vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that give each plant its unique coloring. 

3. Learn How To Manage Stress Levels

Stress is a normal part of everyday life, but it can get out of hand. When that happens, your fitness can suffer. While you can't get rid of stress, you can take steps to manage how you handle it. There are tons of different types of stress relief techniques, so you may have to play around with a few before you find what works for you. Some examples that people have found effective include:

• Breath meditation

• Adult coloring

• Spending time outdoors

• Going for a massage

4. Spend Time With People You Love

Spending time with friends and family is more than fun, it is also good for your health. Studies show that people who have strong relationships are happier and live healthier lives. Not only that, but social interactions help reduce loneliness, which is a contributor to poor health. 

There are several things you can do to make the most of time with others. First, plan activities and gatherings with people you enjoy being around. Then, add your plans to your calendar and stick with them. Yes, even when things are hectic and you are being pulled in multiple directions. You deserve the time to recharge and connect with people you care about, and you should take it. 

5. Drink Plenty of Water

Finally, grab a refillable water bottle or insulated cup, fill it with water and make it a habit to carry it around with you. This can help you stay hydrated, which allows your body to function at its best. It also ensures that toxins and waste is flushed from your system.

You already know that physical activity is an important part of painting fitness levels. Now you know that things like sleeping enough, staying hydrated and spending time with loved ones can also help you stay in top shape mentally and physically.