Midcheshire Independent Issue 174

JANUARY 2025 14 Independent HEALTH & WELLBEING IF you’re feeling down as we move into the new year here are some top tips to becoming a happier ver- sion of yourself in 2025. DO MORE OF WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY WHETHER it’s reading, cook- ing, or simply taking time to relax, if you enjoy doing any activities, schedule more time for it to keep you away from negative thoughts. If you don’t have any hob- bies? Why don’t start learn- ing something you love or feel curious about? By setting goals and acquir- ing new skills, you can boost self-confidence, feel a sense of achievement and open up new opportunities for yourself. THE new year is on its way and with it those res- olutions to get fitter and shed the festive pounds. Here are some tips that can help you make a real difference: EAT BREAKFAST LIKE A KING There’s an old saying, ‘Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper.’ If you fill up at break- fast it kick-starts the metabo- lism and gives the body a tank of energy to burn throughout the day. Having the smallest meal at the end of the day means you won’t have excess calories when you are gener- ally the most sedentary. Getting in shape after the festive fun BE PREPARED If you spend time preparing healthy snacks for home and work then you are less likely to fall off the dieting wagon. If you have crudités ready for when you are feeling peck- ish or high-fibre snacks like dried fruits and nuts around the house, then you can curb the hunger without the guilt. WATER Don’t underestimate the power of H2o when you think you are feeling hungry. More often than not, the body is thirsty so have a large glass of water and wait 20 min- utes before bounding into the kitchen or the shop. SIMPLE MATHS You’ve heard the expression, ‘Eat less and move more’ - this is a simple formula for losing weight. Fewer calories in and more burnt through exercise will result in weight loss. Remember, to lose 1lb in weight you need to burn 3,500 more calories than you consume. MAKE THE NAUGHTY LIST Don’t totally restrict everything from your diet. If you do this, it is highly likely you’ll break your diet through binging on your taboo food. Better to include a little of what you fancy as a weekly treat. The route to a happier you STAY SOCIALLY CONNECTED CONFIDING in someone you trust – whether a friend or a family member, can make you feel supported and less isolated. Letting other peo- ple know about your feelings and emotions could help you reframe pessimistic thoughts. Apart from your family and friends, you can also connect with your local community. For example, volunteering for a charity or organisation in your area is a great way to meet new people and gain positive experiences. EAT A BRAIN-HEALTHY DIET HAVING a nutritious, bal- anced diet and staying hydrated with enough water can help you boost your energy and keep you focused. Evidence shows that polyphenols, which can be found in oranges, berries, and cocoa products can have positive effects on the mainte- nance of cognitive and mental health. Nuts, seeds and leg- umes, including beans and lentils, are also excellent brain foods. Additionally, ensure you have a sufficient daily intake of key nutrients such as Omega 3, zinc, vitamin C, D, etc to benefit your overall health and wellbeing. Eating a variety of proteins, vegetables, and fruits daily can help you get the essential nutrients your body needs. If you are struggling to get enough nutrients from your diet, you may want to consider taking vitamin supplements. SLEEP WELL MAINTAINING good sleep health has key advantages to both mental and physical health. Lack of sleep can affect your mood and day- to-day cognitive function, so aim to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night. You can start with creating a comfortable sleeping envi- ronment like using an aroma diffuser to help enhance your sleep quality. Also, giving yourself some tech-free time before bedtime, and reducing caffeine intake throughout the day might help you sleep better. SPEAK UP AND SEEK HELP IF YOU NEED IT SEEKING help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. It can be hard to ask for help, but it’s important to know that you don’t need to go through it alone. Everyone experiences ups and downs in life, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it’s necessary to reach out to your support net- work - whether that’s friends, family, or mental health sup- port organisations.