Sunday 7th April was World Health Day. Fawn Bess Leith looks at some simple things you can do to improve your wellbeing

a pair of feet in trainers run up some stone steps — Eat and breath a healthy lifestyle. Photo: Bruno Nascimento/Unsplash

Let’s get the bad news over with: we’re the sickest country in Europe when we are measured by the rates of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and obesity due to the amount of ultra-processed food we consume. So it is worth thinking and acting upon healthier lifestyle choices as this will not only benefit our long term health but also do more for climate change.

Our impaired eating habits have caused our appetites to become debased. Often it demands food that impairs health and causes weakness and lethargy instead of strength and vitality. We cannot be guided by the customs of modern society. There’s no doubt that the diseases and suffering that prevails are largely due to popular errors in regards to diet.

The good news: we don’t need lots of money or a high standard of education to achieve good health. We all have access to the natural laws of health. Living a healthy lifestyle can get complicated but I want to share eight fundamental principles of health that are captured by the acronym NEWSTART. Research shows that they not only prevent disease but can be used in certain ailments to treat or cure.

Nutrition: We have a variety of healthful foods, fruits and vegetables in their natural forms or cooked and each person can choose from among these each day.

Exercise: Get active, engage in some form of activity, one that gets you moving and you enjoy. The weather is getting warmer so go out for walks or do some gardening. There are several community gardens in Newham that you can get involved in. They come in a range of shapes and sizes but they share a unique mission; they bring people together in nature to inspire and heal.

Water: don’t get thirsty. Water is essential for your existence as it constitutes approximately 60 percent of our bodies. Opt for water and healthy fluids over soft drinks and acidic beverages.

Sunlight: it provides us with vitamin D which is crucial for overall well being. Enjoy the benefits by spending some time outdoors but protect yourself from excessive UV radiation which is harmful.

Temperance: Moderation and self-control is crucial in all aspects of life. Avoid excessive indulgence in substances and behaviours that are harmful such as overeating, alcohol and drug misuse and other addictive behaviours.

Air: Breathe in, breath out. Take deep breaths, it can invigorate you physically and mentally. Ensure proper ventilation in your living and work space. Some plants can purify the air so get a potted plant in your office or at home.

Rest: Adequate rest and quality sleep are vital for our bodies to repair and rejuvenate. Optimise your sleep environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, cool and free from ‘blue light’ from electronic devices. Practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help you to sleep well.

Trust: cultivating spirituality can provide emotional support and inner strength. Find practices that you are comfortable with such as prayer, meditation, mindfulness or connecting with like-minded people.

Our individual health journey is unique so consult your health professionals for personalised health advice and treatment when indicated. Prioritise your health, make small positive lifestyle changes and embrace a holistic approach to wellbeing.

More useful and local health and wellbeing information is available on the Well Newham website: www.wellnewham.org.uk

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