There are several different ways of thinking about health and wellbeing.

Health can be defined as physical, mental and social wellbeing, not just as absence of disease. Wellbeing also means high life satisfaction and having a sense of meaning or purpose.

Balanced diet – many of us associate healthy lifestyle with diets – waiting to feel good until we look good. Diets are defined by rigid rules, but healthy living should be personal and flexible and should easily fit into your life. For me, the most powerful message regarding a healthy balanced diet is Michael Pollen’s summary:

“Eat real food, not too much, mostly plants.”

But, of course, wellbeing is influenced by so much more than what you eat.

Rituals can help to give a sense of purpose and structure to your day. These can be movements, mindfulness exercises, breathing practices, meditations or just taking time to prepare a meal or a cup of tea. Apart from framing your day, rituals also help to reduce stress and stimulate productivity.

Rest and sleep – sleep is often a neglected part of people’s overall wellbeing, it is just as important as healthy eating and exercising. Sleep enables the body to repair itself. It also reduces stress, improves your memory and boosts your mood. All to do with the brain activity while you are asleep.