As winter weather is now upon us, it is common to lose motivation in terms of our physical activity levels and healthy eating regimes.
The temptation to spend our days relaxing in the warm indoors and spoiling ourselves with high-fat foods can prove too great amidst the unappealing conditions that keep us from venturing outside.
This sluggish lifestyle can leave us feeling lazy, or even worse contribute to a nice amount of unwanted winter weight.
Luckily, there are a range of approaches to be employed that can assist even the least motivated couch-dweller to get out and about.
Establish and pursue personal goals: Pick three personal goals that you would like to focus on this winter. These could include eating less sugar, setting aside time to read, or completing 30 minutes of light exercise daily. Establishing goals will give you a sense of meaning and direction.
Get up early: Regardless of how warm it is under your doona, force yourself up. Beginning the day on a positive note and with a head start is essential to maintaining an active lifestyle.
Drink plenty of water: Water keeps you hydrated and can assist to flush out harmful toxins. Not only will this improve the quality of your skin, it also improves your vitality.
Eat well: Focus your consumption on natural, low-fat, low sugar, low salt, foods. We recommend a diet high in natural fresh fruits and vegetables, accompanied with a balance of protein and carbohydrate foods. Try to limit your animal fats and consider replacing them with tofu or nuts. You'll notice your energy levels increasing after just a few days!
Get some sunlight: This is important for two reasons. Sunlight helps regulate your body clock which in turn helps us to wake up early and fall asleep more easily at night. Sunlight also provides a healthy source of Vitamin D.
Exercise daily: Heightened levels of daily exercise will result in increased blood circulation and can assist to eliminate toxins from your body. It is important to have fun with your exercise; make it a part of your day you look forward to.
Makes plans: Go running with a friend once a week, or plan a range of activities. Put these plans in your diary or calendar. By making note and scheduling personal events, you are much more likely to follow through with your plans.
With over 50 years of experience, Hopewood Health Retreat is Australia's most experienced health retreat. It has been successful in the assistance of health remedies and heightening the well being of clients since its establishment. Hopewood's focus is on providing healthy, appetising vegetarian food options, stress management, relaxation and gentle, monitored exercise. Nestled in the peaceful foothills of the Blue Mountains on the banks of the Nepean River and only an hour from Sydney, Hopewood Health Retreat is the perfect destination to get back to good health this winter.
For more information, visit www.hopewood.com.au or call us on (02) 4773 8401.
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