It’s the beginning of the year, and many people will be attempting to stick to resolutions such as losing weight or getting fitter. However, research shows that the vast majority of people abandon their resolutions within a few weeks. This is often because they are overambitious, and require an unrealistic amount of effort and willpower to stick to.
Furthermore, the inevitable slip ups can create a sense of failure. This discourages us from trying to make sustainable efforts that could genuinely boost our health and increase confidence. A much better approach than making big resolutions is to introduce some simple and easily actionable habits into your daily routine.
Here are some ideas to inspire you. If you would like some more tailored advice, our lifestyle coach in Birmingham will be delighted to work with you.
Plan your meals for the week ahead
Most of us know by now the cornerstones of a healthy diet: avoiding most ultra-processed foods and instead focusing on a good balance of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean proteins, wholegrains and unsaturated fats. However, this knowledge can be hard to put into practice when we are tired and have limited time available.
By taking some time at the weekend to plan and prep healthier meals, you can avoid the temptation to fall back on convenience foods that usually have high levels of saturated fats, sugar and salt. Batch cook large portions of meals such as vegetable hotpot and chicken casseroles, and portion them up to eat throughout the week with some fresh vegetables.
Be active for at least 15 minutes every day
Instead of setting ambitious goals to spend an hour in the gym every day, set a more achievable target of being active for at least 15 minutes every day. This could be a video guided workout before work in the morning, a brisk lunchtime walk, or a quick yoga session to wind down in the evening. You will soon notice a difference in your energy levels.
Eat more mindfully
It’s all too easy to get into the habit of eating when watching TV or scrolling through a screen. Even without these distractions, you may find yourself rushing through meals without really noticing the food on your plate. Set an intention to eat more mindfully, slowing down and savouring the appearance, aroma, taste and texture of each mouthful.
This will help you recognise the signs that you are full more quickly, reducing overeating or comfort eating.
Have a weekly decluttering session
Clutter can impair our productivity and concentration, and even elevate our stress levels. However, the thought of decluttering your whole home can be overwhelming and lead to a state of paralysis. Instead, set aside an hour or so each week to declutter a small area, even if it's just a kitchen drawer.
Over the year, you will build up a sense of satisfaction in your more organised living space, and may even save money as you are less tempted to buy things you don’t really need, or buy duplicates of items you’d forgotten you owned.
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