A health coach has shared her top five tips for boosting wellbeing in the New Year, including the clever ‘add one more’ tactic. Sarah Stannard, in conversation with The Wellness Co, highlighted straightforward adjustments that could make January a breeze.
1. Prioritise your preferred treats
Sarah advised: “Instead of feeling pressured to try everything on offer, focus on the foods or desserts you truly love. For example, if you’re not that into fruitcake but can’t resist a slice of chocolate cake, make the choice to indulge in that favourite treat and skip the others.
“This approach allows you to enjoy January without feeling guilty. By selecting only the most satisfying foods, you help yourself maintain balance without compromising enjoyment.
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“Similarly, when it comes to alcohol, choose one or two of your favourite drinks, rather than indulging in everything available. By being selective, you can enjoy January without overindulgence leading to sugar crashes or energy slumps later on.”
2. Embrace more greens – add ‘one more’
Sarah suggested: “Instead of cutting back, focus on what you can add to your meals. Sneak spinach into pasta or kale into smoothies to increase fibre and nutrients. These small changes can improve digestion and energy levels without the need for restrictive detox diets.”
3. Coping with the dreaded ‘food fear’
Sarah disclosed her tips for shedding pounds with practical advice, reports Gloucestershire Live. “Make your meals more satisfying by eating deliberately,” she says.
“Try putting your fork down between bites, pausing to savour the flavours, and checking in with your hunger cues. This mindful approach helps prevent overeating and lets you enjoy every bite.”
She also emphasised the need for a balanced outlook on festive eating, saying: “Focus on enjoying the start to 2025, not stressing about the food. Remember, one indulgent meal or day won’t undo your progress. To keep balance, plan meals that nourish you when you’re not celebrating, stay hydrated, and allow yourself to truly savour the treats you love. Food is part of the joy so embrace it without guilt.”
4. Get a better night’s sleep with some simple exercise
The weight loss guru further added: “Boost your energy and well-being by combining regular movement with quality sleep. Even a 30-minute brisk walk or an evening yoga session can enhance sleep quality, supporting your body’s natural detox processes and helping you feel refreshed.”
5. Find five minutes for some you time
Plus, Sarah suggested finding brief pockets of time for self-care, saying: “Amidst the January pressures, carve out five minutes for relaxation each day. Whether it’s deep breathing, stepping outside for fresh air, or stretching, these simple moments can help reduce stress and improve digestion. Pair this with drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and energised.”