Tips 4 - 7
4. Quit SmokingSmokers will no doubt skip this entire paragraph as they've heard it so many times before - even more so at New Years! However, the fact still remains. Smoking is killing you, and those around you. It's something that often takes a near-death experience to let go of.
Smoking is no longer seen to be a cool thing to do. In recent years, it has become the complete opposite. It's now a revolting past time that has been relegated from most areas. Take the New Year as an opportunity to free yourself from smoking, it could well be one of the best things you ever do.
Bonus tip: Struggling to do it on your own? There are plenty of services to help you, try www.gosmokefree.co.uk for advice.
5.
Eat your Fruit and Veg
Quite a few are now doing it, but are you? The government introduced a scheme for the UK called '5 a Day'. In principle, it's as straightforward as they come. All you need to do to participate, is eat 5 portions of fruit and veg each day. Fruit and vegetables are simply great for you and provide some of the best sources of vitamins, minerals and fibre.
If you're not getting your '5 a Day', read all about the scheme at the official 5 a Day webite.
Bonus tip: I use the 5 a Day scheme myself and a way to make it even more effective is to vary your fruits and veg. A simple way to do so is to have 5 different coloured fruits and veg each day. It's a great way to bring diversity and colour to your diet!
6.
Limit your Alcohol
Just about everyone loves a nice drink and in moderation, it's a very sociable activity. However, are you keeping it in moderation? Excessive drinking is known to cause health problems such as liver and kidney disease. Smoking may have been the cool thing to do in the past, but drinking is very much the cool thing to do today.
Enjoy alcohol responsibly and enjoy the health benefits that come with drinking less. Not to mention less hangovers!
Bonus tip: I personally only drink alcohol on the very rare occasion. If you think that Coca Cola and J2O get boring too quickly, be aware that you can order 'virgin' (without alcohol) alternatives to just about any cocktail. If you don't fancy alcohol but want something interesting, try a 'virgin' pina colada for a change.
7.
Relax
If you start to feel lazy when you're sitting down doing nothing, don't! I often find that we don't make enough time for ourselves just to relax for a moment or two. Try sitting in a quiet room for 10-15 minutes and closing your eyes. By doing so, you'll help your muscles relax, lower blood pressure and reduce stress!
Relaxing doesn't have to be boring either, others may find certain activities to be the best form of relaxation. A nice soak in a hot tub, spending time with a pet or even reading a book might be ways of relaxing for you.
Bonus tip: Relaxing with a partner can be one of the best forms of relaxation and yes, even sex is a great way to relax.
