The New Year has different meanings for different people, however it is undeniable that most of us get a buzz from planning for a healthy year to come. What will your goals be this year?
“New year, new you” might be one of the most overused phrases in January, but there’s something about this time of year that gives us the drive to make healthy changes to our diet and lifestyle.
Most of us will be sitting down to write a list of New Year resolutions, covering everything from losing a bit of weight and exercising more. While we all set admirable goals, it is important that we make sure they’re realistic, healthy and achievable.
For example; setting a goal to lose weight will give your health and self-esteem a huge boost. The amount of weight you lose and the way you lose it needs to be appropriate. Losing 1-2lbs a week from eating healthy ready meals and regular exercise is a positive approach for most people. The problem occurs when people get unrealistic goals into their head, such as being determined to lose two stone in three months – which is just unhealthy and puts an awful lot of pressure on you.
It is also important to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional before making big changes to your diet, in order to stay safe, happy and healthy. Below are some of popular New Year Resolutions and the best ways to achieve your goals in 2015.
1. Weight loss
As we said further up the page, talk to your doctor and aim to lose an appropriate amount of weight and in the right way. Don’t lose heart when you fail to see instant results, stick with it and be patient.
2. It is good to talk
Busy lives mean it can be all too easy to lose track of time. Before we know it, weeks or even months may have passed and we haven’t seen or spoken to certain friends or members of our families. Pick up the phone, send an email or just pop round for a cup of tea.
3. Breaking bad habits
Whether you enjoy a sneaky cigarette or accidentally polish off an entire packet of biscuits while watching Coronation Street, we all have bad habits that ultimately hurt our health. Switch sweet treats for healthy snacks like carrots and hummus, and talk to your doctor for help with quitting smoking.
4. Become a money saving expert
It can be all too easy to spend money without realising it. One of the easiest ways to make instant savings is to consider Oakhouse Foods meals on wheels delivery service. Multiple trips to the supermarket without planning mealtimes ahead of time, means you can spend more on things you don’t really need or use. Our frozen ready meals can be delivered direct to your door, which saves you money and time. We can even set up a standing order, to make the process even easier.
5. Banish stress
Stress can impact our lives in a variety ways. From insomnia to headaches and digestive problems, stress affects everyone differently. Take the time to work out what is worrying you and think about the best ways to do something about it. Sometimes a single conversation can begin the healing process. Some simple yet incredibly effective ways to reduce your stress include:
- Pets
- Gardening
- Doing more exercise
- Seeing friends and family more
- Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables