health & wellbeing
A
is for Arnica. Always good to keep in your bathroom cabinet or fi rst aid box, this versatile herb is commonly
used (as a cream or gel) to treat wounds, bruises, muscle soreness and sunburn. Taken homeopathically, arnica may reduce postoperative swelling and post-surgery pain and treat osteoarthritis, backache, eczema and headaches.
B is for Breathing. Correct breathing (from the diaphragm, not the upper chest) helps release toxins and offers a host of other benefi ts – reduced tension and anxiety, elevated mood, strengthened immune system and improved digestion are just a few.
C is for Cholesterol. This type of fat occurs naturally in the body. Too much (over 5mmol/l) can cause a build-up of plaque in our arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Help prevent it by eating a balanced diet (including oily fi sh), reducing alcohol intake and getting plenty of exercise.
D is for Detox. It can always help to try a short period of detoxifi cation to remove toxic substances from the body. There’s no scientifi c evidence that these work, but being sensible about your diet and alcohol/caffeine consumption and
30
getting plenty of rest will help. If in doubt, talk to your GP.
E is for Exercise. Regular exercise offers many benefi ts including weight control, supple joints and muscles and even fewer coughs and colds. Just 30 minutes’ moderate exercise daily (a lunchtime walk, family bike ride, swim or some gentle stretching) can make a positive difference. Check beforehand with your GP if you’re unsure.
F is for Feng Shui. This ancient Chinese philosophy is all about how the placement of objects can affect the fl ow of energy or chi in your environment. At a basic level, it’s about de-cluttering your environment – seeing clear surfaces and feeling the fl ow of fresh air can be a real tonic!
G is for Garlic. This wonderful little bulb helps to ward off colds and fl u, has anti-infl ammatory and anti-fungal properties and is chock full of anti-oxidants (great for acne). You can cook with it (crushed garlic releases allicin, a natural antibiotic), take it in powder form or in tablets. Chomp on a sprig of parsley to combat garlic breath.
H is for Health Check. Many diseases are preventable if you catch them early. Vigilance is key, so check your breasts or testicles regularly and keep an eye on
that mole or persistent cough. You may also be eligible for a regular NHS health check. Talk to your doctor or visit the website
www.healthcheck.nhs.uk
I is for Immunity. Boost your body’s natural defences by eating healthily (to get plenty of vitamins and minerals), taking regular exercise and having plenty of sleep. High levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, can depress immunity so try to relax. Going easy on alcohol and cigarettes helps, too.
J is for Juicing. Juicing raw fruit and vegetables is said to be highly benefi cial. Advocates say it massively increases your intake of nutrients, revs up your metabolism and can help you lose weight. Try a few combinations – tangy apple, celery and orange or carrot, apple, lemon and ginger for a zingy uplift.
K is for Knowledge. Why not learn a new skill? As well as kick-starting your social life and increasing your brainpower, studies show that this could also help ward off Alzheimer’s disease.
L is for Leisure. All work and no play? Take some time out to relax and have fun. Laughter is known to reduce stress while loneliness weakens the immune system – what better excuse is there for a regular night out with friends?
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