Top Tips for a Happy and Healthy 2017

Top Tips for a Happy and Healthy 2017

Take things one step at a time
So it’s the New Year and you’ve decided it’s time to make a change. That’s fantastic! However, be realistic with your goals. Take things one step at a time. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Break down your goals into small segments and ask yourself how am I going to achieve my goals? Make a plan that’s sustainable and stick to it. It WILL be worth it in the end. Take it one day at a time.
 
Comparison is the thief of joy- your only competition is yourself
Your only competition is you! Do not compare yourself to others. You are unique, focus on yourself and be the best that you can be.
 
Drink more water!!
Many people overlook the benefits of drinking water however, water has a huge impact on our health and is an essential component of the body. Water helps to transport nutrients in the body, regulates body temperature, helps to keep skin clear, aids concentration and more. The list is endless!. Water is especially helpful for weight loss. Water is calorie free, helps to speed up metabolism and supresses appetite.
 
Exercise is the most effective yet most underused antidepressant
Exercise is not only good for the body but great for the mind too! Studies have shown that exercise releases “feel good” chemicals in our brains which boosts our confidence, self esteem, overall mood and helps us to sleep better.
 
 
Don’t skip breakfast!

Breakfast is in fact the most important meal of the day. It sets you up for the day and prevents you reaching for unhealthy options before lunch time. Make sure to choose the right breakfast foods as many cereals are high in sugar. Eggs, smoothies and lean protein are good options.
 
Take part in a form of exercise which you enjoy
Exercise doesn’t have to be monotonous or boring! Take part in a form of exercise which you enjoy whether its running, swimming, weight training, dancing etc. By enjoying your exercise you are more likely to stick to it.
 
Cardio after weights
For those of you who incorporate weight training in your program a good tip to know is to take part in cardio training post weight training. The rationale for this being that the body is better primed for fat burning post weight training. In simple terms, cardio after weights burns more fat!
 
 
Set goals- long term and short term which are realistic and achievable
Write down both long and short term goals. Something that you really want to achieve and are willing to put maximum effort into. After all, if we don’t truly want something we wont give it 100% effort. As previously mentioned, make your goals realistic and sustainable.

 
 
 
Meal Preparation
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Meal preparation is crucial if weight loss and health are your goal. Prepare your meals the day before if possible. Meal preparation is cost effective, saves time and you know exactly what your food contains. Eating out can be tricky when your aim is losing weight and health is your priority as realistically you don’t know what is added to your food or how its cooked. For optimal recovery try to consume a meal within 30 minutes post workout. This will help to restore energy and reduce fatigue.
 
 
Relax More, Stress Less- Positive Mindset is Crucial to Behaviour Change
Finally, relax! Take more time out for you. Make it your aim to live a life which is as stress free as possible. No ones life is ever going to be totally stress free but there are some things you can do to make it easier. Be positive, there’s always something to smile about. A positive mindset is key when changing your behaviour for the better. Take a deep breath and enjoy life!!

Have a happy and healthy 2017!
Rachel Curley

Rachel has a  BA (Hons) Degree Exercise and Health Studies and works as a fittness instructor and personal trainer.  Follow her on www.facebook.com/RachelCurleyFitnessandPT/