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Tips to Kickstart a Healthy Lifestyle

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SFU chapter.

So…like most of us, I’m guessing your resolution is to work out and eat better for the New Year. If that’s the case, you’re in luck because these tips are bound to make you feel healthier this January and really should be used all year round. Here it goes…

 

1. WATER, WATER, WATER

You’ve probably heard this a million times but WATER is so important. It helps to flush out toxins, boosts the immune system, maintains digestion regularity, increases the metabolic rate, and helps to improves your complexion (a great anti-aging treatment). If you don’t like the natural taste of water, try tea or adding a slice of lemon or lime.

2. Eat breakfast

As you probably know, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast helps to kick start your metabolism and helps to  provide the body with energy, fuel and nutrients that ultimately help with concentration in the classroom. As students, we are always on the go, and quick breakfast fixes can include: oatmeal, avocado toast, cereal or a vegetable/fruit smoothie.

3. Eat a balanced diet

Life is all about balance. Aim to eat a balanced diet that contains fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes.  Try to slowly cut out saturated fats, sugars and other heavily processed foods. You can also start by substituting “junk food” with healthier alternatives, for example: substitute kombucha for soda (they are both bubbly)

4. Sleep!

Make sure to try and get 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is an essential part of health and directly affects how well we are able to learn, grow and interact. Our bodies need this time to repair and prepare for another day of lecture, tutorials and studying so make sure to get as much sleep as possible!

5. Keep active

Staying active can mean many things other than just going to the gym. Find an exercise that you enjoy and that keeps you active.  The possibilities are endless: yoga, dance, spinning, hiking, bar classes. Staying active is essential in reducing health risks and improving your mental health and mood (especially after a long day of school or work).

6. “ME” Time

An important part of overall health is mental. To have a happy and healthy life, it is essential to make time for yourself and be a little bit selfish. Invest your time in a good book, journal, meditatation or by trying something new. This time for ourselves helps us to unwind, makes us more productive, helps to enhance our relationships, and ultimately makes us happier and healthier.

 

2017 should be all about doing things that will make us healthier and happier. So please use some of these tips to help establish a “healthy” lifestyle. Life is all about balance so make sure not to take ANYTHING too seriously.  But if you implement one or two of these tips into your daily life, you will see a world of difference and you will have officially kick started your own healthy lifestyle!

 

 

Image Sources: https://pixabay.com/en/coast-exercise-fitness-lifestyle-1834827/ 

                           https://pixabay.com/en/water-lemon-drink-refreshment-1187656/

                           https://pixabay.com/en/running-runner-long-distance-573762/

Sophie is currently a 2nd-year Communications student at SFU. She's an avid foodie, coffee snob, yogi and shopaholic, basically the definition of a city girl. However, she enjoys travelling and exploring different cultures and cuisines. To see more of her recent purcahses and foodie escapades visit her Instagram: @sophie3t