Steps to a healthier you

ER24 suggests that people take up the challenge of a healthier lifestyle and make a few small changes and adjustments to start the new year on a happier note.

Below are some tips to become happier and healthier:

• Exercise to keep fit. Not everyone likes breaking a sweat. Be it regular walks, a relaxed cycle around the block, swimming, exercising in front of the TV or taking the stairs instead of the lift, daily exercise is better than nothing at all. Start small and gradually increase your time spent exercising.
• Smoking not only affects your health but that of others around you as well. Quit smoking.
• q Make better food choices. Eat more fruit and vegetables and reduce salt, sugar and fatty food intake. Also, remember to cut down on portion sizes. If you have run out of meal ideas or have no clue on how to make a healthy meal that is more exciting for your taste buds, a simple search on the Internet will provide you with a number of options.
• Reduce alcohol intake. If you are consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, seek help.
• Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical well-being. Talk to close family or friends and seek the help of a professional if you are depressed.
• Reduce stress and exhaustion. Remember that all work and no play can be detrimental to your health. Get enough sleep and rest, take some time off and get involved in fun activities, a sport or hobby.
• Visits to a medical professional are important. Regular health exams and tests are vital as chances of treatment or cure are better in most cases if illnesses are detected early.
• Drugs impact negatively on your health and well-being and could lead to death. Do not use drugs.
• Believe in yourself and surround yourself with positive people.
• Family time is extremely important. Spend time together. Listening, being there for each other, saying a simple ‘how was your day or do you need help with anything’, for example, makes for a happier family. Do fun things and have dinner together.

Details: media@er24.co.za

Story first published in January 2016