I often get asked, about my own lifestyle, what I do, what I don’t do and so I thought I would share a few things that I incorporate into my life and tips I like to live my life by.
Attitude – I am an optimist even when I have challenges thrown at me, I have learnt to stay positive. I have trained myself to remember that the glass is always half full. You may laugh at this but I wish the weather presenters would say a partially sunny day not a partially cloudy day. I think it would make the viewers so much happier.
Food – We know as a nation, we are consuming far too much sugar. Research has shown that obesity in Australia has reached epidemic levels and sugar has been a major contributing factor. I have been sugar free for 30 years and I believe it is one of the most important reasons I have been able to keep myself healthy and keep my body in shape. I found it difficult to give up sugar at first as it is so addictive, plus I was missing all my favourite treats and desserts.I was so happy when I tried Perfect SweetTM xylitol and I could finally have my favourite sweets and desserts again, and they were now sugar free! I developed my favourite recipes and replaced sugar with Perfect SweetTM xylitol and replaced the flours with almond or coconut meal which are more nutritious, making healthier sweets and desserts that helped control my sugar cravings and balance my blood sugar levels.
Deprivation – I never deprive myself of the sweet treats that I love. But be aware of portion size and how many times you indulge. Moderation is the key. What I like to do is bake a tray of my favourite sugar free brownies, cut them into small slices and freeze them separately in sandwich bags. Then I have a sugar free, guilt free treat on hand.
Sleep – I try to have at least eight hours sleep every night. I have done this for most of my life and now the research shows that it is essential for good health It is when our body heals and rejuvenates.
Meditation – I meditate every day usually in the morning. It means I have to get up half an hour earlier but the benefits during my working day are enormous. I am so much calmer and intuitive since I have been meditating. I only started meditating at 65 so it is never too late. Start with five minutes a day and build to 20-30 minutes.
Gratitude – I practise gratitude for 5 minutes every morning as part of my meditation. It is the most wonderful uplifting practise. If I am having a stressful day I will stop and just do another 5 minutes. It is amazing how well it calms the mind.
Exercise and Outdoors – I am truly an outdoor person. I feel the best when I am outdoors. I walk my dogs in the park 30 minutes a day. This is one of the best things that I do all day as they love it and I love it too. I played competitive tennis when I was 30 and after a 25 year break, I am back playing social tennis and loving it! I also started yoga 5 years ago and this has helped strengthen my body and quieten my mind.
Mindfulness – I practise mindfulness most days and it can be a part of my meditation or walk in the park. Centring my awareness has a calming effect on my body.
Never Compare – Never compare yourself to anyone else. Be aware of what you like about them and let them inspire you but we are all individuals and we all have our own special traits. Be happy for your friend’s successes and enjoy them together. Never be jealous or resentful, both are wasted emotions and only hurt your wellbeing.
Give Back – The charity I have been supporting this year is The Charlie Teo Foundation – for Brain cancer research. I learnt recently that more children and adults under 40 die of brain cancer than any other cancer. So much more money is needed for research.