Christmas is over and the new year is here, with Australia Day only around the corner the party season is coming to a close, so it’s the perfect time to really cement those resolutions and work towards your goals. It’s becoming increasingly common for new years resolutions to include losing weight, exercising more, eating better, drinking less alcohol and quitting smoking. These resolutions all align towards improving overall health and wellbeing and the following strategies will help you stick to your resolutions and reach your goals.
Snacks – keep healthy snacks nearby so they are your first point of call when feeling peckish. Some suggestions are vegetable sticks & dip, wholegrain cracks & avocado, a piece of fresh fruit or a small tub of yoghurt.
Exercise – start a new sport or gym class you’ve been interested in trying for a while. It’s a great way to meet new people and group exercise sessions are always lots of fun!
Fitness friends – encourage a friend to join your at the local gym or personal training in the park or the local hot yoga studio. You’ll be surprised how motivated you become with a workout buddy and someone to keep your accountable for keeping to your exercise plans.
Shopping – shop the edges of the grocery store, everything you need is there from fresh fruit & veg, wholegrains, dairy products and meats. Keep shopping in the middle aisles to a minimum as this in when the processed foods can sneak into the trolley.
Colour your plate – Make sure your plate is as colourful as the rainbow with all sorts of different fruits and vegetables. This will increase your vitamin & mineral intake.
Alcohol – keep alcoholic drinks to the weekends and try to stick to 2 drinks. For the wine lovers you could try adding some natural mineral water to your glass, opt for light beers and for those spirit drinkers choose mixers with a lower sugar content such as soda water & lime or natural mineral water & diet cordial
Water – it’s been a hot summer so far in Queensland and water is so important to keep you hydrated. It aids your concentration, cognition and processing ability. Did you know that when you feel thirsty its your bodies way of telling you you’re already 2% dehydrated!
Rest – as the party season draws to a close, the late nights, travelling and constant social events start to catch up with us all. Listen to your body and rest when you feel you need it. This will help to prevent you getting sick and will mean you are more alert and productive.
