Image: flickr.com/photos/mait
There are so many ways to address the issue of health and wellbeing, most of which are extremely enjoyable despite what your instincts might be telling you, and there’s no time like the present to become a healthier person in time for the New Year.
1. Attitude – What’s your outlook on life?
Catchy slogans aside, there should be little doubt that your attitude determines how enjoyable you find life, and as research has also proven in recent years, a positive attitude and outlook also results in better overall health.
There are so many ways in which you can address your attitude, such as focusing on the things in life you find appealing and important, taking up meditation and yoga, and of course surrounding yourself with people who also have a positive outlook – don’t overlook the inherent benefits of spending time with positive people.
2. Diet – Is a change of diet in order?
For most of us a change of diet is in order if we’re to enjoy optimal health, and the best way to go about this is to gain a greater understanding of diet and nutrition. The greater your understanding of diet and nutrition the easier it becomes to enjoy great tasting food that’s also great for you, plus it also expands your dietary options.
There are some excellent diets to take an interest in at the moment if you need to shed a few pounds, including the Mediterranean, Palaeolithic and South Beach diets, though whatever diet you opt for, don’t forget that meal times are, and should always be, enjoyable.
3. Exercise – Are you getting enough?
Most of us don’t get enough exercise, so that’s something you perhaps need to look at with an eye to starting the New Year on the right note. Perhaps the best advice that can be given here is to start off slowly – pushing yourself before you’re ready often results in injury and could prevent you from realising your exercise goals. Light exercise is therefore the best place to start, so throw a Frisbee with the kids and walk wherever possible.
Whilst some of us aren’t getting enough exercise others are actually getting too much and may need to tone things down and relax a little. You’ve no doubt heard of too much of a good thing and that’s something that certainly applies to exercise.
4. Relaxation – Everyone needs a little downtime
How do you relax? There’s no right or wrong way to relax, within reason of course, and as many experts frequently point out, everyone needs a little downtime. There are numerous relaxation methods that you can employ at home or work, including meditation and yoga, and many find that light exercise is also an excellent form of relaxation.
The health benefits of relaxation are far too good to overlook, and in addition to the physical benefits associated with relaxation you’ll find that you’re better equipped to handle problems at home or work when they arise.
5. Sleep - Perhaps your best friend
Are you getting ample sleep regularly? Many of us don’t get enough sleep and this is an area that therefore needs to be addressed because the amount of sleep you get has a direct affect on your attitude, plus without it regular exercise and sticking to a nutritious diet often becomes impossible.
Meditation and yoga have been found by many to aid a good night’s sleep and many experts also advocate simple measures like darkening the bedroom and turning the clock around.
In addition to what’s been discussed here there are usually other areas in which you can make positive lifestyle changes that will see you starting 2014 on the right note, like quitting smoking (online consultations are available at Prescription 2 Home), taking up a hobby that’s long interested you and of course spending more time with family and friends, easily the best way to get the most out of the remainder of the year and start the New Year on a positive note.
About the Author:
Prescription 2 Home is an online medical consultation service that was set-up by experienced GPs in the UK. They have a dispensing arrangement with Pharmacy2U for the medications.
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