Last updated on June 18th, 2019
- Grow your own vegetables. It can be a wonderfully soul-nourishing activity to grow your own vegetables or at least herbs or greens. Not only will you have the satisfaction of tending your own plants but your grocery bill will shrink as you begin to stock your fridge with fresh produce from your backyard.
- Buy locally. The less time that passes between farm and table, the fewer nutrients fresh produce will lose. Locally grown fruits and vegetables contain more nutrients because they are picked at their peak freshness, transported shorter distances and sold directly to the consumer, spending very little if any time in cold storage. Talking to the farmer who grew and picked your food gives you an insight into the relationship between the seasons, the land and the food.
- Blend your way to vitality. Incorporate more juices and smoothies into your diet, focusing on the vegetable content to increase the nutrient density. Start with an easy green smoothie consisting of one frozen banana, one kiwifruit, two big handfuls of spinach and a cup of water.
- Organize yourself. Spend a few minutes each night organizing a to-do list for the next day. Outline what you want to achieve and which are the most important items to accomplish. It may take 10 minutes but will prevent you from going to bed and worrying about what needs to be done.
- Manage your energy, not your time. You’ll probably be aware that you are better at doing certain tasks at certain times. For example, if your creative energy is highest in the morning, that’s a great time to tackle tasks such as writing. You don’t necessarily need high creative energy for phone calls and emails and admin-related tasks, so the afternoon may be the best time to get these done. The same goes for exercise. Organize your day around the time you prefer, whether it’s morning, late afternoon or early evening. Keep a record of when your energy is high or low and what is your creative time.
- Reduce your alcohol consumption. Hands down, reducing alcohol consumption is one of the best things you can do for your health. Even moderate consumption of alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. If you’re drinking two glasses of wine each night, reduce this to one. If you’re drinking on four nights every week, reduce this to two. Instead of alcohol, make yourself a delicious mocktail using sparkling water, mint leaves and fresh lemon juice.
- Learn how to say no, gently. If this feels really uncomfortable for you, make a list of what energises you and what drains you. If the ‘drains me’ list is longer, start by cutting back on one of those activities or obligations. If that’s not possible then whenever possible seek help.
- Start a gratitude journal. Record your thoughts or the things you feel grateful for each day. There is no better way to put your thoughts or problems into perspective.
