How is your New Years resolution going?
Did you make a New Year resolutions at the start of 2017? Feeling guilty because we are now a one month through the year and you still haven’t done anything about your health and fitness?
The good news is - you can start now. Yes, it’s as easy as that! Forget about the last three months and take charge of your lifestyle today.
Being healthy and fit doesn’t mean expensive exercise equipment or a gym membership. It’s about making small and sustainable changes to your lifestyle over time.
Here are 4 easy ways to get on track and better your lifestyle in 2015.
1. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables
Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is what our ancestors used to do. If it comes in a box and isn’t something your gran would recognise stay away from it.
Support your local farmer's market and buy organic produce. Eat them raw where possible or use gentle cooking methods like steaming to get the most health benefits.
Instead of reaching for processed snacks like chips, eat a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts when snacking.
Children tend to follow their parents’ example in adopting healthy habits. A 2014 study by the University of North Carolina found that the main cause of childhood obesity was poor dietary habits that children picked up by observing their parents.
2. Slow down
Rushed meals and stress can contribute to poor health. Make a conscious effort to eat slowly and chew your food.
Slow down and avoid getting stressed over work issues or traffic. Eating quickly leads to digestive problems and stress can lead to poor sleep and fatigue.
If you are feeling stressed; breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth to a count of four. You can do this while sitting in traffic or listen to soothing classical music.
3. Embrace the outdoors
There’s nothing like warm sunshine and fresh air to heal and relax the mind and body. Go for a walk 3-4 times a week, swim in the ocean or lay down in your backyard with a good book for a dose of Vitamin D.
Every weekend, leave the chores and spend time outdoors. Switch off at regular intervals from modern life and technology by going camping or hiking.
Research has found that exercising outdoors is better - the rate of physical activity tends to be higher than being active indoors.
4. One change at a time
It takes a few months to adopt a new habit so don’t be too hard on yourself if you fall off the wagon during this time. Start over and soon the new habit will become second nature.
Make one change at a time. If you do it all at once, chances are you’ll soon give up because it will be too hard.
Small changes over a long time gives you the best chance at improving your general health and wellbeing.
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