As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect and commit to habits that enhance both our physical and mental health.

The internet tends to advise that the only way to be fit is to resign yourself to lifting heavy weights every day and eating chicken and broccoli for every meal. However, the truth is that there are several easy (and effective!) habits you can adopt in your daily life to kickstart a happier and healthier you. In this blog, we look at 4 habits that will guide you to better health.

  1. Drink more water

Drinking enough water important for your cognitive function, kidney function and digestion. On top of that, it also improves your workouts by helping to prevent cramps and reduce the chance of dizziness during exercise.

So, start your day with a big glass of water and make a conscious effort to stay hydrated throughout the day. The NHS Eatwell Guide recommends that people should aim to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day, even more if they’re physically active for long periods of time.

sleep

  1. Prioritise sleep

The importance of a good night’s sleep is often overlooked, even by those who try and live the healthiest lifestyles. As the brain can seemingly function on 5 or 6 hours of rest, it’s very easy to think that it’s okay to miss a few hours of sleep regularly.

However, it is absolutely crucial for your long-term health that you get enough sleep on a nightly basis. Sleep experts recommend at least 7 – 8 hours of quality sleep every night to allow the body to repair and recover from the day. Furthermore, during sleep is when the body releases human growth hormone which is vital to muscle recovery and growth.

Here are some top tips to improve the quality of your sleep:

  • Make enough time for sleep – even if you have a busy schedule
  • Create a consistent bedtime routine. If you can’t initially fall asleep on time, focus on waking up on time (and don’t hit the snooze button!)
  • Create a good sleep environment – get the best mattress, dim the lights, reduce noise etc
  • Have a wind down routine – do things that relax you, such as a nice hot bath. Put the tech away as well

Read more guidance on getting a good night’s sleep in our blog here.

  1. Be more active

Even if you go to the gym 5 times a week, the key to lifelong fitness is to simply be more active in your day-to-day life. Instead of always going to the cinema or sitting around for long meals, try and find activities you (and your friends) enjoy that also get you moving.

Take long walks, ride your bike everywhere, go for scenic hikes, join a Sunday sports league, go out dancing – the list is endless! Not only will this get you moving, but you’ll likely have more fun and meet new people in the process.

  1. Focus on your mental well-being

It’s easy to think of mental health and physical health as two separate things. However, if ignored, over time, poor mental well-being can take a toll on your body and even increase your risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, to name only a few.

The truth is that you will never be able to avoid stress altogether. However, you can improve how you manage it and if you manage stress better, you will be happier and healthier.

Consider incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine. Whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindful walks, taking a few quiet moments each day to centre yourself can promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

I’m a big advocate of allocating specific times during the day for a digital detox. Simply unplugging from electronic devices, social media, and emails for an hour during lunch can go a long way in reducing mental clutter and fostering a sense of presence.

Ready for the New Year?

So, as you embark on a journey towards improved physical and mental well-being in the new year, remember that it is the small, consistent habits that lead to significant transformations.

By embracing these four easy habits above, you’re laying the foundation for a healthier, fitter, and more vibrant you. Here’s to a year of positive change and sustainable well-being!