5 Ways to Save Your Life

We all know what we should do for our health, such as drink 8 glasses of water every day, eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables and do at least 30 minutes of exercise. In reality, how many of those do you do? Worst of all, most people don't have time to eat healthily every day or are so chained to their desk that 30 minutes of exercise each day is not possible. Add that to the stresses and strains we all face in life and it's no wonder that people suffer from stress-related illnesses. So, what can you do if you want to improve things, in addition to the things listed above?

1. The first thing to do is to stop worrying. I know, it's so difficult, isn't it? Whether you worry about paying off your credit card bill, or the rising cost of living, there never seems to be a time to relax. There always seems to be something to worry about. Unfortunately, worrying does not solve a problem; it just makes you feel helpless as you are often worrying over something you have very little control over. Stress and worry can often lead to anxiety attacks, panic attacks, shortness of breath, feeling sick and insomnia, but to name a few. Instead of sitting and worrying (or worse, smoking and worrying) try a deep breathing exercise or going for a short walk. It will calm you down and help to clear your head. Even accepting that you are doing your best with a situation will put things into perspective and help you think of a solution.

2. Move a little more every day. Simple, but true. If you have a pet dog, take it for a longer walk. If you are already a healthy weight, it will help you to maintain good health and walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise; it is also free and you don't need any special equipment!

3. Let go of a grudge. I know it can be difficult to let go and forgive someone. Unfortunately, the only person you end up hurting is yourself, as you often keep all those negative, angry thoughts and feelings to yourself and bottle them all up. This can also lead to physical symptoms and make you feel physically, as well as mentally, unwell. If you can, it really is best to try and forgive and forget. You will feel as though a weight has been lifted and will wish you had done it sooner.

4. Don't be in denial. If you have a health worry, it is best to see a doctor as soon as you can. It may well be nothing to worry about, but it is better to be safe than sorry. For example, if you have been suffering from stomach pains, it could just be that you have a food intolerance, but a simple check will soon tell you. Again, worrying will not do you any good and you will end up feeling worse because you convince yourself that you have got something far more serious.

5. Check your family tree. For example, if you are planning on going on the Pill, your doctor will always ask you whether there is a history of certain diseases in your family. If you are not sure, ask your mum or dad for a bit of background information. Is there any history of heart disease? Did your relatives die from smoking-related illnesses or hereditary ones? Studies show that if you are obese, have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a history of smoking, you need to acknowledge that you are at an increased risk.