A new year a new you.
As we approach the new year, many of us look at what and how we can improve our wellbeing. Whether it be physical or mental, I definitely agree with many that they work in tandem.
We have to look at the vast amount of ways that we can improve our health.Many of us go into the new year with good intentions but fall by the wayside after a week or two. Whether it becomes a lack of motivation or a lack of trying we need to look at ways to keep us on the right track to a healthier future.
I personally am guilty of using excuses or finding ways to take the easy
route and not change my bad habits that are detrimental to my health. One being that I have a terrible sweet tooth and can't seem to go a day without chocolate at the moment. But I have to have a cut off point where mentally I say to myself that enough is enough and the new year will be a new me. You have to make goals achievable so I won't be cutting out sweet foods completely but I have decided that one day a week I will be allowed a 'cheat day' where I can enjoy sweet foods.
At this time of the year, it is perfect for one to reflect on the year
that's gone and make the changes needed for the coming year. January the 1st brings with it a definitive moment where you can really channel all your energy into a goal or multiple goals whatever they may be.
We need to look up and see the countless activities and options we have
right in front of us. I know a lot of people aren't fans of gyms but why
not make use of your nearest woods or park? What about joining a swimming or dance class? As long as you are pro active there are so many options out there for all of us.
If you were to look at just a few areas in your life you could work on to
improve your wellbeing I bet you could name at least 5. I am probably one of the most disorganised people around and over the past few weeks I have seen how my disorganisation can affect so many other areas of my life, it has become like a domino effect. So I am going to start right back to the basics from simple things like at the end of each day, preparing as much as I can for the following to going to sleep an hour earlier each day so I am well rested and ready for the next day. All these little changes will help me become more organised.
Below are 7 tips that you should incorporate into your daily routine.
1. Get your 8 hours
This is a debatable subject, some say 7 hours is enough. Only you know your body and what works best for you. Find that perfect duration of sleep every night and stick to it. Remember your body is in recovering and growing mode when you are asleep. So aim for that 8 hour mark.
2. Drink more water
We’ve all heard how much water we need each day, yet H2O continues to take a backseat to other priorities. Health authorities recommend eight 8-ounce glasses, which equals about 2 liters or half a gallon per day but more is better. Water keeps you full, flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and provides a moist environment for ear, nose, and throat tissues. Keep track of your hydration with a water bottle with measurements on it or simply check your urine – if it’s very yellow, you’re probably dehydrated.
3. Take the stairs
Skipping the elevator adds a quick cardio boost to your day. Even if it’s
just a flight here and there, your body will thank you.
4. Stop multitasking while eating
You know you’re guilty of finishing off an entire bag of chips while
watching your favourite TV show. You didn't mean to have more than a
handful but it happened.
5. Stand more
They say sitting is the new smoking, but we sit in the car, at work, in
class, and just about everywhere. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk
of developing serious illnesses like various types of cancer, heart
disease, and type 2 diabetes. To combat this, get up at least once an hour. Go get a glass of water, hit the bathroom, or take a small stroll, anything to get moving.
6. Never skip breakfast (most important point)
Skipping breakfast may increase coronary heart disease risk, according to numerous health studies. Even if it means grabbing a breakfast bar on your way to work or class, make sure you eat something to jump start your day.
7. Drink herbal and green teas
Swap your standard glass of OJ for a cup of herbal or green tea. The health benefits are vast.
Lastly I want to loosely touch on how we can combat stress. Stress affects us all in so many ways and can originate from different things such as work or relationships. I ask you to take half an hour a day to yourself. Whether it be meditating, listening to your favourite song, going to your favourite class, having a bath, pursuing one of your hobbies, whatever it may be take that half hour a day to switch off. Focus on yourself and almost nurture yourself to encourage that positive energy. Have a wonderful new year and let's start make the changes now to improve your wellbeing in every aspect of your life.