Wellness

4 bad habits to wipe out in the first month of 2018

4 bad habits to fight in the first month of the new year

We all know how important it is to break bad habits — we're not telling you anything new. Good intentions, however, remain empty promises when words are not followed by action — and that usually fails.

If you want everything at once, it's easy to get overwhelmed and give up before January is over. Making changes to a healthier life and getting rid of bad habits takes time. Use the first month of the year to set the course and take the first step towards the fittest, healthiest, happiest and most flexible version of yourself.

First things first — Get used to these unhealthy routines and make 2018 your best year:

1. Processed foods

We read almost every day about the negative effects of processed foods and added sugar on our health. Eating naturally doesn't have to be very expensive and time-consuming. Grains, such as quinoa, can be prepared in 10 minutes, freezers allow us to precook wholesome meals and the Internet is teeming with interesting ideas for turning our junk food favorites into healthy alternatives.

Say goodbye to processed foods and your taste buds will soon be craving real foods instead of addictive, unhealthy substitutes.

2. Sit

Spending a lot of time sitting is normal in our modern world, especially when working at a desk. However, this was not always the case. The human body is not only designed to move, but also needs it to stay healthy. Millions of deaths each year are due to lack of exercise — however, even small changes (such as getting up more often and moving a bit more) have a significant positive impact on our health.

Take a brisk walk during your lunch break, climb stairs instead of taking the lift, or sign up for a motivational class at the gym — your body and brain will be grateful. Fight bad habits!

3. caffeine

For many of us, coffee in the morning is a good start to the day and is by no means a bad habit when consumed moderately. Just one less caffeinated drink a day can do wonders for your mood, sleep, and health. Completely abstaining from caffeine from one day to the next can lead to withdrawal symptoms — especially headaches and fatigue.

Slowly reducing consumption gets the body used to the new situation and prevents these unpleasant side effects. Skip the afternoon or evening caffeine first and replace it with an immune-boosting drink, such as fresh tea or hot lemon with ginger. Rooibos tea is a delicious alternative to coffee — without caffeine.

4. No sleep routine

Use the power of biorhythms. During sleep, the body regenerates and recovers. A restful night is essential for our health. Nothing beats the feeling of waking up in the morning full of energy and being prepared for everything the day has in store. An irregular rhythm is a common habit. Follow these simple rules to improve your sleep quality: Go to sleep at around the same time each evening.

Reduce your use of electronic devices and bright screens an hour before — all of these external stimuli make it harder to relax. Avoid alcohol — although it makes you fall asleep faster, it reduces REM sleep, which is crucial for a restful night.

All of these tips for fighting a bad habit will help you get better than yesterday. But this is just the start, there is much more to do. More information at http://betterthanyesterday.holmesplace.com/ch/de

Posted on wellness, fitness, sustenance