The summer’s here, the sun’s shining and life
Except for that nagging ache in your feet – you knew you should have bought better sandals, didn’t you? Or maybe you just feel tired and drained all the time – because you keep trying to burn the candle at both ends.
Whatever your own minor health niggles are, summer really is the best time to kick start some changes. And take advantage of the long, warm days to start taking strides to improve your overall wellbeing.
Make a plan which includes some SMART goals
The first thing to do is think about where you are now and what you’d like to improve – be honest and realistic. Where would you like to be or what do you specifically want to change or improve?
Set yourself some simple steps that you could take to improve your overall health – and set SMART goals. Reward yourself for every achievement – even if it’s something as simple as getting off the bus a stop earlier. Maybe try taking some fruit to work for your ‘afternoon slump’ snack, instead of the usual crisps or chocolate bar.
Which brings us to the second important point.
Eat well…or at least eat better
Summer is a fantastic time to improve your diet – with so much fresh fruit and produce being readily available. So try filling your plate with salad, for example – and make it the focal point of your meal.
There are lots of low-fat dressings available if you find it a bit bland – then add a small portion of protein and carbs. A little flavoured grilled chicken is always delicious – and any type of oily fish helps you get valuable Omega 3. You can also add some health supplements to your diet to ensure that your body gets the nutrients it is currently missing out on. Check out www.kyaniteamgenesis.com.au for more information on the options that are available.
Get plenty of sleep
We know it’s sometimes difficult in the summer, when you want to enjoy every minute you get outside work, as often as possible. But we all need enough sleep and, when we don’t, it’s not just our mood that suffers the consequences. It’s terrible for our health in the long run – so aim to get at least seven to eight hours a night if you can.
You’ll look and feel much better for it – and your whole health will improve too – which is great news.
Address those niggling aches and pains
We talked earlier about having twinges in your feet – but what about the ones in your back, legs or shoulders too? These pains are often the result of ill fitting footwear – or the way we all sit at work – which isn’t always ideal.
Getting help from a chiropractor can be really life changing – so why not check out ones in your local area? You’ll feel the benefit immediately – and it will improve your ability to start taking more exercise (which is our next point).
Exercise as much possible, but start slowly
Why not take the opportunity the warmer weather provides, to get out and do even a little gentle exercise? It’s especially important if you have a desk bound job – as many of us do – because we’re so sedentary.
As we mentioned, you can take this in small steps – if you haven’t exercised for a while that’s often most sensible. Try walking the last half mile to work, maybe, or going for a slow jog in the park when you get home.
Even taking the stairs instead of a lift, is helpful – it’s really whatever suits you and your lifestyle successfully. You’ll feel more energised for it and sleep better – bringing us back to point 2 again. And your skin, hair and nails will also say a big ‘thank you’.
We think this season provides fabulous opportunities to get fitter, lose a few pounds, eat better and shape up. And, with a few simple steps, you could make this summer the time you seriously improve your wellbeing.
