Living green
The health of our environment has a tremendous impact on our own health so for many, a healthier New You includes a resolution to live a more eco-friendly life. Though it can seem an overwhelming task at first, even the simplest steps towards reducing your carbon footprint can impact the health of the planet in very big ways. Here are some simple ways to start off 2012 with new eco-consciousness.
For starters, consider the impact of your water bottle. If you buy a bottle of water or carbonated drink at work each day, you may want to invest in a reusable Eco Bottle, which are better choices for reducing plastic waste. Investing in a BPA-free Eco bottle not only helps the environment, but keeps bisphenol A, a compound known to disturb our internal biochemistry, out of your body too.
Owning a Reusable Eco Bottle is another great way to reduce landfill waste; by using your SodaStream as an alternative for carbonated drinks, you reduce your environmental impact at home and eliminate the need for plastic bottles there too
Another easy way to reduce plastics waste is by bringing along a reusable shopping bag when you go shopping. Tuck one away into your purse or car to reduce reliance on plastic bags and keep your environment and natural surroundings cleaner and healthier.
Walking or biking wherever you can, instead of relying on vehicles which pollute the air and environment keeps both your body and mind healthy. Not only does cycling keep the air cleaner but it does the same thing for your heart health, as well. Also, consider buying locally. Buying local produce saves fuel on transport and encourages farmers to offer more organically grown produce that is fresher. Remember - whatever you choose to do, starting small can ultimately lead to big changes for the health of our bodies and our planet.
9 Ways to Get Healthier in 2012
1. Get moving: We all know how important exercise and now a lack of time is no excuse not to get yours - even several bursts of 10 minutes of activity can make a huge impact on your health just as one longer session does.
2. Increase your intake of greens and colored fruits and veggies: Leafy green vegetables are a particularly great way to get much needed vitamins, minerals, fiber, and consuming a full rainbow of colors when it comes to your other fruits and vegetables means you're getting a full array of disease-fighting antioxidants, too.
3. Drink more: though not everyone requires 8 glasses a day, most of us suffer from slight dehydration and could use some more water, which helps eliminate mild headaches, spaciness and poor concentration.
4. And drink well: If your favorite store bought soda contains high fructose corn syrup and preservatives, you may want to consider going natural this year. Some options include SodaStream's Natural line of syrups which comes in a variety of flavors, the Naturals Kids line which has added vitamins, too or better yet, choose simple and pure sparkling water.
5. Clean greenly: A healthier planet means a healthier you. If you rely on harsh chemicals to clean the house, you may want to consider shifting over to more eco-friendly household cleaners. In addition, make sure your bottles are BPA-free or better yet, choose Eco bottle
6. Get back to nature: Studies have shown that just gazing at a picture of nature does wonders for your stress levels - so imagine what a real walk in the park can do!
7. Remember to breathe! Take a few minutes every hour to sit back and take in deep breathes which provides your brain and tissues with oxygen, de-stressing and reviving you.
8. Schedule your yearly check-up if you haven't yet: Remember, prevention is the best medicine.
9. Have fun: There's no better stress relief than fun and laughter, so make sure you don't forget to have an occasional rolling belly laugh whenever possible.