What health means to me
Hey! I’m Sophie, I’m 32 and am living in East London. I have been vegan for the past three years and finding new recipes to veganise. I also love keeping fit and healthy, especially during lockdown as I feel like it’s given me a focus through setting goals for myself. I love HIIT workouts, using weights and have recently got back into running and yoga. I exercise for my mind as well as my body.
My top 5 tips for leading a healthier live are:
1. Eat more plants
I know going vegan is not an option for everyone, but simply introducing more fruit, veg and whole foods such as legumes into your diet is the easiest way to feel healthier and improve your diet. My favourite salad at the movement is roasted chickpeas, sweet potato and avocado! So simple, but delicious and all counts towards your veg intake.
2. Move your body
Like I mentioned before, I love to exercise not only to keep my body healthy, but also to keep my mind healthy too. The rush of endorphins post workout motivates me to be more productive throughout my day. If exercise feels like a chore for you, try working out in the morning so it’s out the way, and also find out how you enjoy exercising, whether that is running, weights, yoga, dancing, walking, swimming, classes, boxing, tennis, golf etc. There are also loads of online apps such as FIIT where you can complete a workout along side an instructor which is also much more motivating than on your own! I also love Metabolic Live Streams which you can find on Instagram @metabolicLDN.
3. Sleep!
A good sleep routine is so important for a healthy body and mind. If you can get to sleep by a similar time every night and wake up at a similar time every morning then your body will soon fall into a routine making it much easier to fall asleep at night, and get up in the morning. Sleep is also so important when it comes to brain function and recovery after exercise too, so try to aim for those 8 hours. If you struggle to fall asleep, try having a hot bath or shower before hand to decrease your body temperature (needed to fall asleep), don’t use your phone for at least 30 mins before bed and dim the lights or use soft lighting in your bedroom to create an atmosphere that your body feel ready to relax and sleep in.
4. Limit Caffeine / Alcohol
Never tell yourself you can’t have something as it will make you want it more, however I do think when it comes to stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol its good to set sensible limits. This is easier said and done and I am only just getting the hang of this myself, but I treat myself to one coffee a day in the morning and drink on special occasions. If you’re trying to cut down on caffeine, try to drink before midday so it doesn’t affect your sleep routine (Coffee has a half-life of 6 hours!), also try de-caff. It still gives you that little buzz without making you anxious! Post 12pm, swap your coffee for water or herbal teas.
5. Gratitude
I have found writing a gratitude list every evening a great way to finish the day. I keep a notebook near my bed and write down a few things I am grateful for every day. This can be tricky at first, especially if you’ve had a bit of a bad day but start with something simple like talking with a friend, or having your favourite food and you will soon get into a flow with it. Some people like to write theirs in the morning to start off the day, but I have found it quite reflective to do it in the evening. It also helps set your mood, and helps with a positive frame of mine. Hope you found these tips useful. I’m not perfect, but these things certain help me to lead a
healthier life.
Written by @myveganbod
