Column: Tiptree’s Dan Trussler runs lifestyle medicine clinic Ancestral Health

EVERY day I have the pleasure of working with people who are taking a proactive approach to their health.

They are making steps towards a lifestyle that enables their body to stay well and healthy.

I want to share with you my top recommendations so you too can feel more confident in your health.

After what’s happened in the world during 2020, it’s easy to forget some of the fundamental daily habits that have kept human beings thriving on this earth for thousands of years.

I’ve focused on seven that virtually anyone can access, no matter your current situation.

They can also be great to think about for your children, too.

One - Go outside everyday.

Human beings are meant to be outside for much of the day.

So, whatever the weather, decide to go outside for at least five minutes and ideally a lot longer.

If you can get into nature – maybe your local park, nature reserve or woodland area this will have added benefits.

In Japan, people are prescribed the therapy of Shinrin-Yoku, which means forest bathing, and it’s shown to lower blood pressure.

Two - Start each day with fresh water.

Your body has performed amazing cleaning processes for you overnight, which you can help by flushing out some of the by-products with hydration.

I like filtered hot water with a pinch of sea salt and some people like to use lemon juice in theirs.

Whatever your choice, commit to at least a mug or glass of water before any tea, coffee or food in the morning.

Three - Spend time focusing on your breathing.

Becoming aware of your breath is the first step to being more mindful about your body.

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Take ownership of your health - Dan Trussler 

Here’s a simple exercise. Place one hand on your chest and one on your abdomen and just observe for the next two minutes the movements of your ribcage whilst you breathe.

Taking this a step further, a guided relaxation each morning can really set you up for having a great day.

Look up the apps Headspace or Calm for inspiration.

Four - Reduce your consumption of sugar.

The biggest culprits here are fizzy drinks, alcohol, cakes, biscuits, bread and chocolate.

Five - Chew your food.

Many people I work with who have IBS or other digestive issues have poor eating habits where they barely chew their food.

When you have your next meal, focus on the number of times you chew each mouthful.

You should chew at least 15 times and even liquid foods like soup benefit from the action of chewing as it sends a message to your digestive system to be ready for the food that’s on its way.

Six - Eat your evening meal earlier.

Ideally, you would have three to four hours between finishing your evening meal and bedtime.

You will sleep better if you’re able to do this.

Limiting or eliminating snacking during this time can also be very beneficial if you’re aiming for weight loss.

Seven - Avoid screens and phones before bedtime.

Our ancestors would have only had a fire to provide light after sunset – we now have light from many sources.

It’s proven that this light disrupts your hormonal rhythms so plan to engage in more relaxing activities for those last two hours before bedtime.

I recommend a pair of ‘blue blocking’ glasses for watching TV at night and for those occasions where we do need to reply to a text or email on our phones.

I’m confident that implementing these seven tips will have a big impact on the way you feel if you commit to them for at least a few weeks.

It’s time to take ownership of your own health and that of your families, besides who wants to be waiting for a phone call appointment with your doctor?

If you’re interested in a more personalised approach to your individual health situation, we are open to taking on new clients with our lifestyle coaching services.

Do give us a call and we’ll be able to advise you on whether we can help.