Reviatalise your health: A fresh start for 2024

The New Year is often a time for both reflection on the past and anticipation for the year ahead, prompting us to consider the changes we want, (or need) to make, and how to achieve them. Many resolutions revolve around eating better, losing weight, and improving wellbeing. You can take a holistic approach to a healthy body with these suggestions…

1.  Exercise Getting a regular mix of exercise −strength, cardiovascular, and flexibility − will keep you mobile, fit and energetic, minimise the risk of many lifestyle diseases, and make you feel good. Exercise doesn’t have to be a formal activity; you just have to move every day!
2. Nutrition Being healthy is a balance between being active and eating sensibly. You can reduce the risk of a range of health problems by maintaining a healthy body weight. Cut back on sugar, alcohol, salt and saturated fats. Eat a variety of nutrient-dense food such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. Additionally, ensure you drink enough water, as every system in your body depends on hydration.
3.  Sleep You might think you can manage on five hours of sleep, but your body probably disagrees! Typically, adults need about 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Sleeping helps your body restore and repair itself and boosts brain function. If you struggle with sleep issues, we can assist you or guide you to the right resources.
4.  Maintain brain health Living a mentally active life is as important as physical exercise. Stimulate your brain with reading, games and puzzles, or learn a new skill. Try activities that require manual dexterity as well as mental effort, such as drawing, or playing an instrument. Brainchallenging activities can help establish connections between nerve cells, and may even help your brain generate new cells.
5.  Connect with others Being social is good for your health and wellbeing. Spending time with friends and family helps enhance happiness, lessen sorrows, and increases your sense of belonging and purpose. Helping others fulfils many basic emotional needs for both the helper and recipient.
6.  Think positively Laughter really is great medicine, especially when it comes to managing stress. Laughter reduces stress hormones, increases the release of ‘feel-good’ endorphins, and boosts your immune system.

Additionally, reflecting on the positive aspects of your life can enhance your happiness and resilience. 

Here’s a great tip for any age group: take up dancing – it can keep you mentally and physically active, and you’ll probably make friends and have a lot of fun - all from one activity!