Seven Steps to Good Health Spring is here at last. What a horribly long grey winter we have had this year and how delightful it is to see the daffodils in all their glory. I regret to report I have been ill (very embarrassing when you are in the health business)! After breaking my right arm on 5th February, I also succumbed to two nasty infections. I am ashamed to say it made me realise just how smug I was about my good health and how much I took it for granted. Good health is so precious and indeed can be a fragile thing, so we need to take care of our miraculous bodies. Let us all take some positive steps to improve our health. Step 1. Make the decision to change your life and improve your health. The mind is far more powerful than the body so the first step is to control your mind and take that step toward a healthier life. Making up your mind that you are in control and that you want and need to make changes is essential to success. Take that first step today toward being healthier, fitter and having the vitality you deserve. Step 2. Simple changes will make a big difference No more junk and processed food that makes us feel horrid, that clogs the arteries and makes you fat. I want you to think about everything that goes in your mouth. Try eliminating alcohol for seven days – alcohol is a poison to the body and dulls our senses. Tap into the wisdom of your mind, body and soul. Listen to your body. Step 3. Understand what you should be eating and what you should avoid As stated before processed foods are bad for our health, we need fresh food which provides us with the nutrients we need to support the body. Please take up this challenge - ditch all processed foods for 30 days and feel the benefits to your health and vitality. We are addicted to refined sugar which is the most degenerative substance we put into our bodies. Controlling your sugar intake will improve your health enormously. Step 4. – What should you be drinking It is important that we drink plenty of water so get into the habit of always having water in your car for your journey and at your desk in the office; never go long periods without drinking water. If you start to feel thirsty you are already dehydrated. It is thought that 75% of the western world is chronically dehydrated and that in most people, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger. Dehydration is responsible for slowing metabolism, poor digestion, reduced concentration and fatigue. Your urine should be straw coloured with no strong odour. Step 5. The importance and benefits of exercise
h This is key for many reasons: exercise lowers blood sugar levels, helps keeps bowels working efficiently, boosts immunity, burns calories, encourages a good night’s sleep and boosts mood. Exercise gives you energy al so “move that body”! of
The of m Individuals differ greatly in their requirement for sleep but most of us would benefit from getting to bed earlier ligam occasionally at least. Many people do not get the sleep they need and this can affect their health. To improve mech a your chances of a good night’s rest never go to bed hungry or on a full stomach and do not drink caffeinated ne drinks late at night. Try a warm milky drink instead or a chamomile tea which is calming. Try missing the latervou T news programmes you will be surprised how much easier it is to drop off without the worries of the world onhe prim mani your shoulders. p comp ula laint range Step 7. Getting balance in your life and learning to laugh and living with joy of m is We need balance in our lives so think about ways in which you can find time just for Step 6. The importance of having adequate sleep
you. Time to be relaxed and quiet even ten minutes twice a day will make you feel less stressed. Stress is a killer it is at the root of many diseases.
Make a change no matter how
Laugh more its good for your health and I am sure life is not meant to be taken too seriously!
Live with joy and health.
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Elizabeth Beetham I BSC spent a lot ofNurtritionist. time wondering what to write for thisand month’s article. How to Holistic Natural Health Journalist Wellbeing Expert encourage and inspire you to embrace a healthier lifestyle today, not in a week or email: elizabeth@powerforhealth.com www.powerforhealth.com a month but now today as you are reading this article! What can I say, what can I Tel: Mobile 07773 790736you make some simple changes that will really improve teach you that will ensure
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