1. Prioritise restful sleep
Swept up by the festivities from the year before, late nights may become routine, depriving the body of adequate rest. Lack of sleep is most often the root cause of increased negative feelings, such as irritability and poor mood, and if not addressed, can limit our motivation to make positive changes. Therefore, start off the year right by establishing a healthy sleep routine. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support mental clarity, immune function, and overall vitality. Create a relaxing bedtime routine—dim the lights, reduce screen time, and consider incorporating calming practices like meditation or herbal teas.
2. Support healthy digestion
While the festive period is a time to celebrate and enjoy delicious treats, changes to eating patterns can negatively impact digestive processes and irritate the gut. To keep your gut happy in the new year, consider equipping yourself with Herbs of Gold Digest-Zymes, as it contains a range of digestive enzymes to assist the digestion of protein, fats and carbohydrates, as well as the herb Gentian, traditionally used in Western herbal medicine (WHM) to relieve symptoms of indigestion, including bloating, feelings of fullness and abdominal pain.
3.Stay active and move daily
Physical activity doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym; it can be as simple as a brisk walk, yoga session, or dancing to your favourite tunes. Regular movement boosts cardiovascular health, improves mood, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Find activities you enjoy to make exercise a sustainable and enjoyable habit.
4. Fuel your body with nutrient-dense foods
Focus on whole, minimally processed foods to nourish your body. Fill your plate with colourful vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and fibre to keep your energy levels steady and support long-term health.
5. Stay hydrated
Hydration is often overlooked but essential for optimal health. Water helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and keeps your skin glowing. Aim for at least 2 litres of water daily and consider infusing it with fruit (e.g. slices of lemon or apple) or herbs (e.g. mint) for a refreshing twist.
6. Manage stress
Chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Prioritise stress management by practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, or spending time in nature. Leaning on medicinal herbs, such as Rhodiola, can be a worthwhile strategy, as it is traditionally used in WHM to relieve symptoms of stress and feelings of weariness, which is often associated with stressful periods. See Herbs of Gold Stress Ease.
7. Set realistic goals
Setting achievable health goals can help you stay motivated throughout the year. Whether it’s eating more vegetables, walking 10 000 steps daily, or reducing sugar intake, start small and build from there. Celebrate your progress along the way!
By implementing these tips, you can start the year strong and stay on track toward a healthy and happy you. Remember, small changes lead to big results—consistency is key!
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
