I think we can all agree that this time last year few of us could have predicted how 2020 would have turned out. Firstly, I would like to give my full condolences to anyone who has been affected by the pandemic which we know has impacted so many: the effect that this has had on people’s families and livelihoods will take some time to recover from, and we must endeavour to remember those we have lost throughout these tough times.
However, on a more positive note, it does feel like we are finally nearing the end of this crisis – and hopefully soon phrases like ‘social distancing’, ‘lockdown’ and all the talk of ‘tiers’ will be things of the past. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that our health and the health of everyone we care about is more important than ever. Recently, we put our heads together as a team, and had a think: to start the new year off in the best possible way, what are some small changes we can make right now? Little things that will help to give us that new year boost we all need right now…
Drink Plenty of Water
It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? We all know we should be drinking at least 2 litres of water a day – but how many of us actually do? If you’re as busy as I am, it can feel like 2 litres of coffee may be more appropriate, but your body definitely isn’t going to thank you for that! Drinking at least 2 litres of water a day will keep your body in tip-top shape and can even make you look younger. Our body is made of around 60% water, so think of it as the liquid fuel our vital organs need to function as best as they can.
Exercise
When I’m talking about exercise, I don’t mean we should all rush out and buy a gym membership – personally, I don’t like going to the gym and prefer the outdoors (and I know that many people loathe the ‘g’ word!). However, we can and should be making sure we take regular walks. Walking is the best exercise for heart fitness and for improving digestion. Walking can refresh your mind, relieve stress & tension and allow your internal organs to recalibrate their natural rhythm. Whether its walking your kids to school or walking to work, there are lots of opportunities to get out and about. There are some fabulous places to explore locally which my son and I found out about during last year’s school closures – so 2021 is the year to put those walking boots on and start exploring.
Eat Healthily
At this time of year, I really don’t want to see another pig-in-blanket or glass of prosecco for a long time. We all start the new year off with such good intentions, but sometimes struggle to keep them up. Your 5 a Day can seem like the trials of Hercules – especially for those of you with fussy eaters at home! However, we should remember there is actually a wide variety of healthy alternatives out there to try. In my house, we now have “no meat Mondays” which has forced me to be a bit more creative with my cooking – my meat-free Mexican chilli is now one of our favourite meals! One of the best things I got years ago was a Nutribullet blender, so now I get a daily dose of raw veg which I call “liquid gold”. It’s packed full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals – just a few sips in the morning is the best way of getting all those vital things into our bodies.
Sleep
For those of you that read last month’s newsletter, you will know that we highly recommend getting those 8 hours in as regularly as possible – but for you new readers, there are a whole host of reasons why. It is necessary to rest to allow your body to repair; whether it be after a long day of hard labour or a stressful day sitting in front of a screen, you need rest. If you don’t allow your internal batteries to recharge you will find it increasingly difficult to stay focussed on your day-to-day tasks. Much like your regular adjustments keep your central nervous system working at its optimal capacity, sleep recharges the brain to make sure it’s working as well as it can be.
With all that said, we hope that you can put your best foot forward into 2021, whatever your circumstances may be. It’s a tough and challenging time for so many, so look after yourselves, take care where you can and find some joy in the little things.
I look forward to seeing you in the clinic again (hopefully) very soon!
Warm regards,
Paul and the Team
