Another year over, a new one has begun. Hello 2021!

When the pandemic hit us last year, we have seen the importance of having a strong immune system for increased resistance against the coronavirus and the occurrence of different types of illnesses. It goes to show that if there is one resolution that we should keep for 2021, that is we should ensure we maintain a healthier lifestyle. If that is your goal, then look no further. We got you covered!

Move it, move it!

Did you know that movement is integral to any healthy lifestyle regimen? There are a myriad of benefits incorporating physical activity can offer in our daily lives. Other than aesthetics – reducing overall body fat, or having more defined muscles, having regular exercise strengthens the musculoskeletal system which aid in improving overall health and decrease the chance of getting diseases. Moreover, hormones released post-workout helps one to have a brighter mood.

To help you adhere to having regular physical activity, here are tips that might be of help:

• Find your soulmate workout. Look for a routine that you enjoy. There are different types of workouts or activities that keep you moving. Do not be limited, you have to explore. It’s like looking for a perfect fit job – if you decide to stay and work for a company because you enjoy what you do, then there is a greater chance of you staying long term. Same is true with finding your soulmate workout. Do not be pressured by others. Exercise at your own pace.

• Be consistent. It takes a certain amount of perseverance and motivation to stay consistent as part of a lifestyle change. Like how you look for that one true love, it is imperative that you are ready to commit to your chosen workout routine. Dedicate a time for workout and trust the process. Nothing comes easy and results don’t show real quick. Believe in yourself and just keep the fire burning, or should we say, keep the fat burning 😉.

• Give yourself a reward. Do not deprive yourself. Set some short-term goals and give yourself the opportunity to relax. Keep in mind though that you should stay in reason and be in line with your fitness goals.
  

Maintain a healthy diet

Nutritionist-dietitians cannot stress this enough --- Decreased immunity is often linked with poor nutrition. Good nutrition is essential and should be partnered with enough rest, regular physical activity, and good personal hygiene to reduce our susceptibility to illness.

Follow these quick and simple ideas for a healthy diet:

• Plan it out! To have control over the nutritional value and calorie content of your food, start with planning and preparing your own meals. For those worried about the amount of time it would take to do this, consider doing batch cooking. Dedicate a few hours to prepare big batches of food and pack into smaller containers. In this way, you can just grab and go. This is most helpful for those who go to work or need to do activities throughout the day. Not only time is saved, but also money, too!

• Write a food diary. This is a good technique when trying to balance out and track the number of calories consumed throughout the day. Write ‘em down! – what, when, and how much. This will help you evaluate the things you eat and if you are happy with it.

• Out of sight, out of mind. If you don’t see it, you won’t think of it. Do a kitchen cleaning at the start of the year and remove unhealthy food from your pantry. Stock up with healthier options. In this way, only healthy food items are accessible for you to consume.

• Nifty tricks. Some additional tricks that can also be of help include devoting full focus when eating. Refrain from watching television, or holding gadgets during meal time. Being mindful helps you to control intake and determine if you eaten a lot. You may also choose to eat in smaller plates or chop the food in smaller pieces.

A little step goes a long way. What is important is you start. This new year, take the leap and don’t look back. Just keep moving forward towards a healthier you. (MCLCChen)