Top Ten Tips for a Healthier You!

If you want to improve your health and well-being so that you can live life to the full, follow our top ten tips to look and feel amazing!nn1. Exercise regularly. Try fun activities such as dancing, cycling, swimming, walking or keep-fit classes with friends. Alternate activities so that you exercise all your muscles, including your heart. Stay active throughout the day – vigorous housework or a brisk walk or taking stairs instead of the lift all helps burn calories and keeps you toned and healthy.nn2. Choose a nutritious diet. Eat at least five pieces of fruit and vegetables each day. Cut back on processed foods and produce that is high in sugar, salt and fat. Eat small meals often and opt for additive-free, fresh food wherever possible. Make sure your diet is varied so that you digest the optimum range of nutrients that your body and mind needs to function properly. Give yourself a treat occasionally but remember the mantra: Everything in moderation!nn3. Drink water. Try to drink around 6 to 8 glasses of water each day. If you find water is too bland, add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime. For hot drinks, opt for fruit or green tea, which tends to have greater health benefits.nn4. Avoid bad habits. Quit smoking to reduce your risk of disease. Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum, especially beer. Research suggests, however, that a single glass of wine every now and again is good for you. Some people who reach the grand milestone of 100 attribute their good health and longevity to taking an occasional shot of whisky. Again, it’s all about moderation. If you want to break a habit, try hypnotherapy to help you achieve your goal.nn5. Moderate your exposure to sunlight to avoid skin degeneration and disease. A little bit of sun is good for you but too much can lead to health problems later on.nn6. Treat yourself. Your body is the only one you have for this lifetime so look after it well. Take regular spa treatments and complementary therapies to enhance your well-being and vitality. Try reflexology, aromatherapy or shiatsu to relax and keep your body in a state of dynamic health. Time out is essential to maintaining optimum health and you are worthy of regular treats.nn7. Relax and meditate. Our minds are constantly working overtime to process all the information and emotions experienced on a daily basis. It’s essential to switch off regularly through meditation so that you can still your mind and focus on being in the moment. Join a meditation class to motivate you or buy a guided meditation CD so that you can try out a session in the comfort of your own home. Start with just ten to twenty minutes per day to fit in with your schedule. Some find it easier to meditate in the morning or early evening. Choose a quiet, peaceful spot and make sure you’re not disturbed.nn8. Resolve negative emotions. If you’re feeling bad about something or depressed, angry or sad over a situation, take time out to heal your emotions. It’s now more widely believed that long term negative emotions can cause physical illnesses or disease if left unresolved. Feelings can eat away at your soul if left unchecked so find a way of resolving any internal conflicts. If you can’t deal with these emotions yourself, try Emotional Freedom Technique or consult a counsellor or attend a healing session. Once negative emotions are cleared, you will find your spirits are lifted and you will experience an enhanced sense of well-being. nn9. Sleep well. Many people’s health suffers through lack of quality sleep. Some are unfortunate to suffer from insomnia and other sleep conditions but anyone can experience periods of wakefulness and unsettled sleep patterns throughout life. Often, stress can cause sleeplessness but disruption to routine can also create problems. Make sure you prepare for a good night’s sleep. Take a relaxing bath and avoid drinking or eating too late at night. Check that your bedroom provides a relaxing and restful environment in which to sleep. Try to sleep in total darkness and make sure your bed is comfortable and pleasantly warm. Consult a complementary therapist if sleeping continues to be a problem or try a herbal remedy from your health store.nn10. Adopt a positive outlook. People who are positive and happy tend to be healthier and live longer. Your state of mind really makes a difference to your well-being. So, relax, smile and enjoy life. Look for the positive in every situation and find time to bring laughter into your life every single day. Feel good about yourself and let your positive nature shine. n When you take care of yourself, you will benefit from all the advantages that come with optimum health and well-being. Enjoy increased vitality and fitness so that you can live a full and active life. Experience a greater clarity of mind and a more balanced outlook. The benefits are all within your reach. So, don’t sit back and take your health for granted. Nurture yourself.nnTreat your body as if it is a temple, and in turn, it will look after you for many more years to come.