Welcome to Week 1.

This week we are going to focus on nourishing our bodies. It’s amazing the benefits this can have on our overall Wellbeing. Choose an area you are going to commit to change and let me know which one by using the #StamfordHappy on the challenge post on my pages on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (or all 3!). Links at the end.

Top Tip! Don’t aim too high unless you are already a little way into this journey. Choose something you can achieve and be realistic. You can build on your success in the next week if you have found it manageable. I have deliberately kept the challenges fairly straightforward so they can fit into our busy lives.

Pledge to increase your water intake. Guidelines suggest 6–8 cups a day (2 litres). If your intake is low at the moment — maybe just commit to an extra glass or two a day to begin with. Start and end your day with a glass of water perhaps. I’ll post some more information on my platforms over the course of the week, including the importance of being hydrated and tips for increasing your intake.

If you consume a lot of caffeine, don’t just cut it out altogether, you will experience some big headaches(from experience)! Aim to just reduce this week. Maybe restrict your caffeine to before lunchtime or limit yourself to two cups of caffeinated and treat yourself to some other interesting drinks to replace the rest. Don’t forget chocolate and some fizzy drinks also contain caffeine. I’ll post some tips and information throughout the week on my platforms.

If you’re a sugar addict (like me), break yourself in gently by perhaps replacing one snack for something healthier. A piece of fruit or some nuts? Get creative if your braver or more organised. Preparation is key. If you’re at work, or out and about, take something with you. If you’re at home, get someone to hide or remove unhealthy temptations. I’d love to see what you come up with. I’ll make sure I post some suggestions on my platforms too.

I find it easier to stick to the same “go to” foods, especially when I’m busy. It doesn’t leave me feeling very excited about what I’m eating. This challenge is to make something healthy that you have not tried before. Or perhaps try a different Cafe or Restaurant or sample something healthier from your regular. Let me know how you get on!

Get organised and make your lunch at home. This will save you money and is likely to be more healthy than what you can buy. Perhaps batch something at the weekend and portion it up for the week. Even if you are at home for lunch it often pays to have it made ready so you don’t reach for whatever is to hand when you’re hungry.

Try to eat a meal without any distractions. Put the phone away and don’t sit in front of the television (guilty!) — focus on your food. Alternatively use the time to connect with your partner or family and eat at the table together.

Hopefully I have given you a bit of inspiration. I can’t wait to get started and see how you all get on.

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