8 Simple Tips To Start You On The Road To Wellness!

Tip#1: Eat Healthy

What you eat and drink and what you don't eat and drink can definitely make a difference to your health.  Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can help improve your nutrition.

Tip#2: Maintain A Healthy Weight

Obesity is at an all time high in New Zealand, and the epidemic may be getting worse.  Those who are overweight or obese have increased risks for diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart dissease and stroke.  Eat better, get regular exercise and see your health care provider about any health concerns to make sure you are on the right track to staying healthy.

Tip#3: Get Moving

More than 50% of New Zealand men and women do not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits.  For adults, thirty minutes of moderate physical activity on most, preferably all days of the week is recommended.  It doesn't take a lot of time or money, but it does take commitment.  Start slowly , work up to a satisfactory level and try not to overdo it.  You can develop one routine, or you can do something different every day.  Find fun ways to stay in shape and feel good, such as dancing, gardening, cutting the grass, swimming, walking or jogging.

Tip #4: Be Smoke-Free

Health concerns associated with smoking include cancer and lung disease.  Smoking triples the risk of dying from heart disease among those who are middle-aged.  Second-hand smoke (smoke that you inhale when others smoke) also affects your health.  If you smoke, consider the risk you are doing to your lifespan.

Tip #5: Manage Stress

Perhaps now more than ever before, job stress poses a threat to the health of workers and, in turn, to the health of organisations.  Balancing obligations to your employer and your family can be challenging.  What's your stress level today?  Protect your mental and physical health by engaging in activities that help you manage your stress at work and at home.

Tip #6: Know Yourself And Your Risks

Your parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are.  Your habits, work and home environments and lifestyle also help to define your health and your risks.  You may be at an increased risk for certain diseases or conditions because of what you do, where you work and how you play.  Being healthy means doing some homework, knowing yourself, and knowing what's best for you . . . because you are one of a kind.

Tip #7: Be Safe - Protect Yourself

What comes to mind when you think about safety and protecting yourself?  Is it fastening seat belts, applying sunscreen, wearing helmets or having smoke detectors?  It's all of these and more.  It's everything from washing your hands to watching your relationships.  Did you know that men at work die most frequently from motor vehicle incidents, machine-related injuries, homicides and falls?  Take steps to protect yourself and others wherever you are

Tip #8: Be Good To Yourself

Health is not merely the absence of disease; it's a lifestyle.  Whether it's getting enough sleep, relaxing after a stressful day, or enjoying a hobby it's important to take time to be good to yourself.  Take steps to balance work, home and play.  Pay attention to your health and make healthy living a part of your life.