10 simple reminders for a happier, healthier 2017

1. Write, write, write!

Once you know your goals, write them down. Place them somewhere special where you can refer back to them throughout the year. Re-reading your goals throughout the year reminds you of your intentions and ensures you are heading in the intended direction.

2. Reduce stress

Engaging in conversation with friends and family not only increases sociability, but does wonders for your mental health. Talking situations through can create clarity and provide a sense of security; the more you share your experiences, the more you realise you are not alone! If communication isn’t your strong point, begin by writing things down; identify one stressor at a time and focus on finding a solution. Remember to focus on what you can change; what is outside your control needs to be written down and crossed out.

3. Say yes, and no

It is important to take opportunities as they arise, however it is just as important to take time to consider each situation. Will this opportunity be the best use of your time? Will it make you feel good? We all need to learn to say no, even if it means disappointing others, you should never feel bad for putting your health first.

4. Drink more water, everyday

Water plays an essential role in the body, transporting nutrients, facilitating detoxification and improving mental concentration. Our body is made up of 60% water, and so it is essential you drink enough each day. Work out how much water you should be drinking by calculating 0.33 litres per kg of your body weight (i.e. 0.33 x 75kg = 2.5 litres)

Top tip: Add a pinch of Himalayan sea salt to your bottle of water to restore electrolytes and ensure what you drink stays in your body.

5. Eat mindfully

It can be difficult to make good choices when you are short on time but preparation is key. Consuming whole food nourishes the mind and body and is the most basic way to demonstrate self-respect. Take time to chew your food and ensure you have no other distractions. This is not only better for digestion but helps you to relax, so your body can store the right nutrients appropriately. Be prepared this year and watch it positively impact your health.

6. Move your body 

Whether your New Year’s resolution is to slim down or not, ensure you are exercising for at least 30 minutes each day; your mind and body will thank you. If you are unable to find time in your schedule, research shows that breaking exercise into 10-minute sessions can be just as effective. Make the most of the long summer days and walk to work, go for a walk during your lunch hour or if you have a long day at work, do exercises at your desk. Increase your motivation for exercise by pairing up with a friend and exploring some of our beautiful natural spaces. For more tips on slimming down have a look at the new way to shape up for summer.

7. Add essential supplements

Keep your health in check with our favourite essential supplements. Try fish oil to increase mental clarity and heart health, magnesium to increase energy levels and for better night’s sleep, and chlorophyll to alkaline and revitalise your body.

8. Get 8 hours of sleep

Do you struggle to go to sleep? It could be your device that is causing disruptions. From the moment we wake up, to the moment we go to sleep, our phones and devices demand our attention, however using our devices up to 90 minutes before we go to bed can impair our natural sleep-wake cycle. For the new year ahead, leave the phone outside the bedroom and create a rule; no blue light after 9pm. Purchase an alarm clock and if possible, leave your curtains open and rise with the sun.

9. Take time to breathe

If you are feeling stressed, anxious or simply need a moment, take some deep breaths and try the 4-6-8 method. Inhale quietly through your nose for a mental count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 6 and exhale completely through your mouth for a count of 8. This can be done anytime, anywhere and no one will know what you are doing. This is great for clearing your thoughts and re-focussing yourself; you will be surprised at the calming effect it has.

10. Nourish your year

We know that people are happier and even live longer when they do things that nourish their soul. Spend time thinking about what areas of your life may need extra nourishment and how you can achieve that. Yoga, practising mindfulness, or learning to meditate are great ways to add balance into your day. Instead of reading through your Facebook feed, replace this with sitting or meditating; it may take some time to get used to, but it will soon be a new habit you’ll love.

The New Year gives plenty of momentum to be the best version of ourselves; harness your enthusiasm at this time. New beginnings are about new achievements, experiences and enjoying the journey along the way. Don't let 2017 pass you by, you are in control of what your 2017 will look like and so begin reflecting, start writing and enjoy what the year has to bring.

Happy New Years, from the team at Good Health.
Have a great 2017!