Look good and feel GREAT: Here’s 6 easy ways to look after YOURSELF (because you really should)

When you’re constantly on the go, looking after yourself can often slide to the bottom of your ever-growing to-do list.

But you only get one body, so it’s important you take really good care of it. As the saying goes you can’t pour from an empty cup, you must make your health a priority.

From short bursts of exercise to a mini digital detox, here are some simple health hacks you can easily fit into your day.   

Look after yourself! You only get one body, so it’s vital to take care of yours

Meal prep like a pro 

Preparing your meals for the week ahead is a great way to encourage heathy eating habits. 

A good place to start is to focus on one meal, such as making nutritious lunches that you can store in the fridge.

Not only will this stop the temptation to grab fast food or a convenience meal when your stomach starts rumbling, but you’ll probably save money in the long run.

Move your body 

Our bodies aren’t meant to sit at a desk all day, so make sure you include some exercise into your routine.

HIIT workouts are ideal if you’re time-poor, as you can work up a sweat in 10-20 minutes. This type of ‘vigorous intensity exercise’ should be done for 75 minutes per week, according to official guidelines[1].

To help support your workout you may want to consider taking a daily supplement like Vitabiotics Wellwoman & Wellman Original available from Boots. These capsules contain magnesium, which is one of the most important nutrients for combating tiredness and fatigue.

Wellman and Wellwoman Original are tailored supplements for men and women

Build a skincare routine 

A skincare routine may sound like high maintenance but it’s actually easy to implement – and you don’t need lots of potions and pills.

Start with a basic three-step routine: cleanse, moisturise and apply sunscreen (at least SPF 30[2] to protect against the sun’s harmful rays).

You can also make sure you’re getting enough nutrients to keep skin looking its best by eating a balanced and varied diet. While we should all be making this a priority, it can sometimes be difficult. If you’re focusing on your skincare, you may want to consider a supplement that contains vitamins A[3] and E[4], which both help support the normal function of the skin. Bassetts Adult Multivitamins are a good all-in-one choice. 

Bassetts Adult Multivitamins come in a tasty raspberry and pomegranate flavour

Digitally detox 

Yes, we really are glued to our phones and it’s not doing our health, especially our eyes any good. 

The symptoms of digital eye strain can include eye discomfort, headaches and difficulty in focusing, but thankfully it isn’t usually serious and can often be relieved once you rest your eyes such as fitting in mini digital detoxes into your day. 

You could do this by not checking your phone until after breakfast, or cutting off all screen time an hour before bed. Remember to get your eyes tested and if you are concerned about your eye strain symptoms then you should speak with your optician.

Another good habit your eyes will thank you for is topping up your vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision[5]. You may want to consider taking a supplement containing vitamin A if you can’t get the recommended amount[6] through diet alone. Find it in Boots A-Z, which is specially formulated with a blend of 23 essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, Boots has a 3 for 2 offer – cheapest free – on selected vitamins.

Boots A-Z  is specially formulated with a blend of 23 essential vitamins and minerals

4 OTHER MULTIVITAMINS TO CONSIDER

Boots Multivitamin Gummies

A budget-friendly option, these gummies feature nine essential vitamins including vitamin C and B12 to support healthy immune system.  £4 for 30 gummies.

Vitl Health Goals Male Multivitamin

These multivitamins are specifically designed for men and are packed with a blend of B vitamins, zinc and vitamin D. £9.99 for 30 capsules.

Vitl Health Goals Female Multivitamin

From vitamin B6 for hormone regulation to biotin & zinc for healthy hair and nails, these multivitamins are formulated to meet women’s needs. £9.99 for 30 capsules.

Wild Nutrition Bespoke Woman Food-Grown Daily Multi Nutrient 

Made from food-grown vitamins, minerals and ashwagandha powder, this supplement delivers a daily dose of vitamin B5, vitamin D and zinc. £32 for 60 capsules.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate  

You’ve probably heard it a million times,  but drink more water.

Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest and best things you can do for your body as it’s needed for many vital functions. The NHS recommends 6–8 glasses of fluid a day, that is about 1.2 litres[7].

Top hydration hacks? Invest in a motivational water bottle that tracks your daily intake and encourages you to keep sipping. Also, if you can’t stand the taste of plain water, try infusing it with fresh fruit, veggies and herbs.

Plan some downtime

When was the last time you had a proper break? If you can’t remember, it’s time to take a break.

Sure, you’re probably looking at Margate instead of Mykonos this year but do book in some downtime. Getting away from the daily grind can help you de-stress and hopefully you’ll come come back feeling rested and restored.

And do keep in mind that downtime can also mean simply taking time out for yourself: think reading a book with a cuppa or having a relaxing soak in the bath.

*Food supplements do not replace a healthy, balanced and varied diet. 

 [1] https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/physical-activity-guidelines 

[2] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/

[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-a/ 

[4]  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-e/

[5] https://www.cehjournal.org/article/what-is-vitamin-a-and-why-do-we-need-it-article/  

[6] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-a/ 

[7] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/water-drinks-nutrition/