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Lifestyle Medicine: 4 ways to support long-term health

Updated: Mar 22, 2022

Wondering where the last 5 years went? You’re not alone!

During a period of enforced sick leave, I realized I hadn’t been focussing on my health and well-being to support my long-term health.


Looking after our physical and emotional well-being is critical for long-term health.



Here are 4 ways you could make a start:


Sleep.



Getting enough sleep is one of the biggest contributors to healthy aging, improving memory, immunity, and our ability to focus.


Hint: Avoid caffeine, 6 hours before sleep. Ensure you have a period of wind down at least 1 hour before bedtime, switch off your ‘phone or TV, read, meditate, write a journal, make a camomile tea, or have a relaxing Epsom salt bath.




Happiness


Did you know that happy people experience a stronger immune system, and are able to accomplish more goals in life?


Hint: Think positive – if something inconvenient happens, flip it on its head and figure out what a good opportunity it is. Make time for something to look forward to – plan a holiday, activity, or event where you can let your hair down and really enjoy yourself. Don’t wait for perfection or approval – if there’s something you have been wanting to do, just do it!



Physical Exercise


Whatever we do to exercise, make sure it is fun! If you don’t find enjoyment in it, it will be impossible to sustain it.

Hint: figure out what you enjoy and then start e.g., make a regular commitment to walk with friends, or join a local fitness club and buy a package to ensure commitment.



Nutrition



Eating well has a direct impact on our well-being and vitality. There are a few things we can do to positively impact our nutrition.


Hint: Increase the number of plants in your daily diet e.g., add 1 new green vegetable into your weekly diet e.g., spinach, kale, broccoli. Drink more water – aim to drink 2 litres / 4 pints of filtered still water per day. Reduce processed food, including sugars, dairy, meat, and processed junk food; swapping things gradually, rather than cutting things out completely, will make it sustainable in the long run.


Summary

The 4 areas above are great places for you to start addressing lifestyle change. Pick just one to start with and take small steps, which are sustainable in the long term.

If you would like to know more about tailored health & wellness coaching solutions, please reach out to me – I’d love to help and support you.
















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