The 5 Basics of Good Health (Especially in Winter) Let's Keep it Simple

Hey there! I've been thinking a lot lately about just how confusing health information is and how even though I try to be healthy, doing the basics can be harder in the winter. 

I've been having some late nights, making some last-minute choices and I have decided I need to remind myself of the basics, and hope you find it helpful too. 

I promise this isn't one of these "ultimate guides to unlocking your best self" but five simple daily habits for good health (especially in the winter). 

Rest: The Foundation of Well-Being

First things first – let's talk about rest. Ah, sweet, glorious sleep! It's not just about catching some ZZZs; it's about nurturing your body and mind.

Picture this: sinking into your cozy bed, surrounded by fluffy pillows, and drifting off into dreamland. Quality sleep isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for good health. 

I have been finding this a little harder lately as I'm in Scottish EDGE (a pitching competition) and it's be on my mind A LOT!

I know that restful sleep also allows my digestive system to function at its best, so my system can efficiently breakdown and absorb all those great nutrients from the food I've eaten. 

I've found myself having not so deep sleeps so I'm making an effort to have no phone/TV late at night (I've been scrolling too much!), changed my bed covers to winter ones, and I'm being more mindful of my routine. 

Movement: Dance Like Nobody's Watching

Well, I'll be honest, business and life has been so busy lately that I've not been doing much dancing.

But I've started taking calls while walking outside. Less desk time needed in the winter months and I need to get some daylight. 

I was listening to a podcast this week and 2 things jumped out: 

We only have one body so why not embrace just how special it is? 

Movement also helps your gut work better by promoting regular bowel movements, enhancing digestion, and increasing blood flow to your digestive organs, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier gut microbiome. I know this but even I need reminded sometimes. 

So, I've been getting up, getting active more in the day, and let my body and gut thrive in motion!

Staying Hydrated: Sip, Sip, Hooray!

We're so lucky to have free water on tap, so this one is easy for me... but I asked some people in my co-working space this week how much water they drink and I was shocked. 

So here's your reminder to get drinking water... your body will thank you for it, and your skin will glow with gratitude. And of course water helps your gut function at its best. 

Food and Gut Health: Nourish From Within

Now, onto everyone's fave topic – food! But wait, we're not just talking about any food; we're talking about fuelling our bodies with lovely nutrients and intention. It's harder during winter to fill myself with vibrant fruits, veggies, and whole grains... but again, progress over perfection and I've been adding more frozen veg to meals to get a bit of colour 

Obvs I'm also still taking my daily Gut Wealth sachet 

Reducing Stress: Zen Mode Activated

For me, this is the hardest one to master! I'm not the most zen person... I love being on the go and need to be productive. 

Life can be hectic, but that doesn't mean we have to let stress take the wheel. It's time to sack off the stress and embrace our inner zen masters. 

Ok... who am I kidding? That's never gonna be me. But I have been to 2 yoga classes and listened to a mindfulness podcast. 

I'm really trying to get ready for the competition but it's on my mind a lot and I want to perform at my best. (And stress can trigger my gut issues too)

Someone told me this week: Remember, you're in control of your stress levels, not the other way around!

Why am I sharing this?  

If you're doing all 5 of these consistently, then the foundations of your health are set. But for more of us, it's probably not the case. 

You deserve to feel at your best.

If you've been lax on some of them, don't worry about what's gone before... you can earn more health points starting today. 

A big gutsy bye for now! 

Gemma

Founder