5 Daily Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

Making subtle changes on a daily basis can significantly improve your health and wellbeing. Below are 5 steps you can take in order to improve your lifestyle:

Get Active

As mentioned on the BBC news, recent studies have shown that sitting for long periods of time is bad for your health, so if you have an office-based job try to move around when you can and take a walk on your lunch break. Try to incorporate some form of physical activity into your routine, whether it’s running in the evenings, swimming in the morning, heading to the gym on your lunch break or cycling to work. For a range of sporting equipment, visit http://www.newitts.com.

Tip: Go online to find some great home workouts or invest in a couple of fitness DVDs. With these you can enjoy exercising in the comfort of your own living room.

Drink More Water

It is very important that you drink enough water to avoid dehydration and stay healthy and energised. The NHS recommends drinking a minimum of 8 glasses a day. Cut back on the caffeine and carry a water bottle around with you wherever you go to ensure you’re getting your daily amount. Drinking water not only cleanses your body but also ensures that you do not look bloated because of water retention.

Tip: If you don’t like the taste of plain water, add a little flavour by mixing in a slice of lemon or lime.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

A good night’s sleep is essential for a long and healthy lifestyle. Sleep deprivation cannot only raise your risk of diabetes but it can lead to weight gain and depression.It is highly recommended to get around eight hours of good quality sleep a night in order for our bodies to fully function.Make sure that you are getting enough sleep by going to bed early and avoiding caffeine or energy drinks.

Tip: Start a bedtime ritual to help you wind down. Have a warm bath, read a book, listen to some music or try some relaxation exercises like yoga.

Change your Diet

Introduce new foods to your diet and make sure you stick to them. Make sure you’re getting your five a day, try to have some protein and greens with every meal, and avoid foods that are processed. Replace your teas and coffees with green tea and water, and swap the chocolate bars and bags of crisps for a handful of almonds or walnuts.

Tip: Pin some inspirational words or images to your fridge or cupboard. When you go to reach for that tub of chocolates it will serve as a constant reminder and help to motivate you.

Be Happier

There are many ways in which we can improve our mental wellbeing and feel happier. Managing stress levels, spending time with friends and family, and having some ‘me time’ are ways that can help you become a happier person. Being active can also make a difference; according to the NHS, physical activity is thought to cause chemical changes in the brain and positively affect our mood.

Tip: Aim for one random act of kindness a day. Whether it’s a sending out a thank you card, complimenting a stranger or volunteering in the local community, the smallest act can count and will leave you smiling for hours.