Here's to good health in 2013

Tracey-Ann Brown, Complementary & Oriental Medicine

In recent years, more and more persons are actively making diet and lifestyle adjustments to promote longevity and an improved quality of life. It makes more sense to change things gradually or one at a time rather than trying to change everything at once. It could mean the difference between sticking to a plan for two months or an ever-improving plan over the course of a lifetime.

Below are a few tips which may be added to one's daily regimen for a healthier you!

Digestion

Did you know that sipping warm water throughout the day helps to improve digestion? It is also helpful during weight loss, with a dash of lime. Sipping green tea throughout the day also helps with your weight-loss programme as it contributes to boosting the metabolism.

Constipation

Blended aloe vera at bedtime works like a charm! Easily grown in almost any backyard, it is used for both acute and chronic constipation. For a home remedy, blend the clear gel of one-third to two-thirds of a medium-size aloe leaf just before bed. Honey may be added to improve flavour. It is also available in liquid forms. It should be avoided by pregnant women and in cases of rectal bleeding.

Feeling sluggish or in low spirits?

Try a B complex supplement. Additionally, many persons find that just maintaining a moderate exercise plan significantly improves their energy and mood.

Feeling stressed, not getting enough sleep?

Sipping chamomile or rose hips tea helps relax the body. Valerian root is also very helpful in cases of insomnia. Maybe you just need to slow down. Additionally, avoid cigarettes, alcohol and coffee.

Cholesterol

Legumes (beans and peas) along with grains (oats, corn, bran and wheat grass) and omega-3 oils (cold/deep water fish or supplement) help to cleanse the arteries.

Arthritis

A successful dietary programme requires some level of cleansing, a largely vegetarian diet with few or no animal products, and immunity-enhancing foods, including omega-3 oils, chlorophyll rich foods, and moderate regular exercise. Wheat grass, alfalfa and turmeric are great allies.

Sinusitis

Try a steam inhalation with eucalyptus, rosemary or thyme oil. Avoid dairy and soy products, while increasing the use of raw garlic, onion and ginger.

Fruits & veggies

Many of us struggle to eat enough fruits and veggies. Try daily juicing - it's quick and easy.

Environment

Your environment is another key factor - not just your physical, but your emotional environment. Try to avoid excessive pollution and relationships that are more a burden than a joy.

Activity

Activity is essential, otherwise your body becomes stagnant and ripe for disease. Try to get a minimum of 30 minutes of daily exercise, workout, sport yoga, tai chi, qi gong, gardening, swimming, walking, etc. Aerobic activity and light to moderate weightlifting are especially good for stagnant or overweight individuals.

Reflection

Daily practices that calm and nurture the spirit, such as prayer, meditation, quiet contemplation, mantras and various relaxed and mindful processes that promote quiet reflection, have an unmistakable place in any healthy living plan. Try it and see the difference.

Dr Tracey-Ann Brown is an oriental medicine practitioner, herbalist and doctor of acupuncture; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.