Simple New Year's Resolutions for a Healthier You

Hello 2022!

It's a new year, which for most resembles a new start and I am sure like most of us you have probably made at least one new years resolution. The most common one is usually to address ones health.

Does this sound like you?

Deciding to be healthier is easy, but implementing successful changes in the long-run can be challenging.

If you are not sure how to start here are a few suggestions.

EAT MORE WHOLE FOODS

One of the easiest ways to improve your health is by eating more whole foods.

Include more whole foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains and nuts in your meals. You will feel fuller for longer and it will increase your nutrient intake, both very beneficial.

PRACTICE MINDFUL EATING

Focus on what's going into your mouth. Slow down between bites and chew properly.

If you slow down, you'll be less likely to overeat as you might already feel full before you think of getting a second helping.

Listen to your body. Listen to when it's full. Be mindful of what you feed your body. Swap unhealthy foods for healthier options or incorporate healthy changes.

EAT LESS SUGARS AND RELY LESS ON CONVENIENT FOODS

Processed and convenient foods might have much more added sugars and preservatives than you might think. Take time to do meal prep on weekends to avoid having to cook for hours during the week. As an example make big batches of soup or pasta sauces or dishes such as lasagnes and pop them in the freezer until needed.

Prewash all your fruit and vegetables on the weekend. I also find keeping my fridge clean helps.

Avoid sugary breakfast cereal and opt for healthy overnight oats or homemade granolas. Both can be made in advance and will save you lots of time and help avoid unnecessary added sugars.

Swap sugary drinks for a glass of water or a cup of tea.

MODERATION IS KEY

Do not completely ditch the occasional splurge. Don't feel like you can't have a piece or two of dark chocolate or a brownie. Instead of avoiding these foods completely rather limit your intake or keep them for special occasions.

As an example I absolutely love dark chocolate. Instead of cutting it out completely I control my intake by only eating chocolate on weekends.

Again, moderation is key.

DON'T KEEP UNHEALTHY FOODS IN YOUR HOME

Get rid off bags of sweets or crisps in your cupboard and don't keep frozen pizzas and chips in your freezer.

If it's not in your kitchen it certainly is a lot easier to avoid.

Also, don't do your grocery shopping when you are hungry as you will must likely buy processed, unhealthy food or food you do not need.

DRINK MORE WATER

It is very important to drink enough water. It helps our body function properly and helps flush out the "bad" out of our systems

Cut back on alcohol as it dehydrates the body. Plus alcohol can be high in sugar and dangerous to the body if overconsumed.

BE MORE ACTIVE

Being active does not only mean joining a gym. It also doesn't necessary mean going for a run. It means adding more movement into your day.

Moving your body for at least 30 consecutive minutes a day can benefit both physically and mentally.

Take a brisk 30 minute walk or 30 minutes meditation or yoga session. Or simply ride a bike.

Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs. Instead of taking the tube or bus for 1 or 2 stops, walk the distance instead.

If your work means sitting at your desk all day, take small breaks every 30 minutes and stand for a few minutes or take a trip to the kitchen to get yourself a glass of water or cup of tea.

Sitting for prolonged periods has shown to increase the risk of obesity and high blood pressure.

I have been using a standing desk for the past 3 years and I can tell you it makes the worlds difference.

NEED MOTIVATION?

The best way to stay motivated is by getting a work-out buddy or meeting up with a friend 3 - 4 times a week simply to go for a 30min walk or join a fitness class. It will help you stay motived and the same for your friend or work-out buddy.

SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE

Spending more time in the fresh air and sunlight is especially good mentally. This also means time away from staring at your screen all day.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE

Self-care includes spending more time with yourself. Take time for yourself, get to know yourself.

Put your phone or laptop away and read a book, take a long bubble bath or meditate.

Learn to be comfortable spending time with yourself - take yourself on a coffee or a lunch date.

Go to a coffee shop, order a cup of coffee and just be. Watch people around you or take a book along, but don't spend time on your phone. It might be a strange thing, but there is something to it.

Do something for yourself and BE PRESENT.

Be aware of your surroundings. Remove the negative and surround yourself with what makes you happy.

Be kind to yourself and stop negative body talk.

Make sure you get enough quality sleep.

If self-care and self acceptance is something you are struggling with and not sure where to start, I recommend speaking to a Life coach.

I highly recommend getting in contact with Heike from Kaffee Conversations Heike (@kaffee_conversations) .

She is one of the most wonderful people and can advice on how to identify your goals and how you can make yourself happier through mindset and lifestyle changes.

AND FINALLY, DON'T GO ON A FAD DIET.

MAKE A LIFESTYLE CHANGE INSTEAD.

Yes you might loose weight on a diet, but unless you make a lifestyle change you will most likely gain all the weight back again once you stopped the diet.

Remember there is no quick fix for loosing weight overnight.

Change your eating habit and make lifestyle changes.

Lots of love and good health