I love the start of a New Year, the beginning of so new many new things and the conclusion of others. As you reflect back on 2008, it’s a really good idea to see what worked for you and what you would like to improve this year. In your quest for health, wellness and happiness, it’s the little things in life that count. So start incorporating some of the ideas below into your everyday schedule and see the difference that these little steps can make.

1. Don’t skip the most important meal
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day as it kick-starts your metabolism and provides you with the necessary energy after your night long fast. Even if in a rush make sure to grab a piece of fruit or a protein smoothie.

2. Let the light in
Good, strong, natural light has very important benefits to mind and body. So paint your inside walls a light colour, add skylights if possible and keep your curtains open to let the outside light in.

3. Wash your hands
You know why and you know when. A 20-second hand wash with warm water and soap is all you need.

4. Embrace compliments
We tend to take criticism to heart, but we never do so with a compliment. Work on swopping this around and feel an immediate lift in your self-esteem.

5. Add more Fibre to your diet
Include more Fibre by adding bran or wheat germ on crumb toppings, sprinkling seeds and nuts onto your salads, and adding apple, raisins and muesli to your breakfast yogurt or smoothie.

6. Don’t try to be perfect
Striving to do everything well is fine, but you have to accept that nothing is perfect. Get rid of the judgemental behaviour and self-doubt, and learn to praise yourself for a job well done even if it’s not perfect according to you.

7. Be aware of your back
Try some core Pilates postures to assist your back. Lengthen your trunk, lower your shoulders and focus on pulling your stomach in. The deeper your stomach ‘sinks’ into your spine, the better-off your back will be.

8. LOL (Laugh out loud)
Laughter can reduce your blood pressure and heart-rate, trigger endorphins – the body’s natural painkillers – and give your abs a good work-out. The best and cheapest way to feel good.

9. Sleep tight
Try to avoid triggers before bedtime that could prevent you from having a good night’s rest – caffeine, vitamin C, heavy exercise and pre-bedtime arguments. A few drops of Lavender oil on your pillow may help you to drift off easily. Close everyday with what you are thankful for in your life.

10. Eat your fruit and vegetables
Find the brightest red, orange, green yellow or purple produce you can find. The brighter the fruit or vegetable, the higher the nutrient content thus preventing you from diseases.

11. Drink H2O everyday
Water, water, water. Humans are made up of 70 – 90% water depending on age. We lose water through daily bodily processes so replenishing your water is very important. Aim for 6 – 8 glasses of purified water per day to keep your system running clean.

12. Think of Nothing
Reduce stress by taking 10 minutes in the morning and evening to meditate. Sit cross legged in a comfortable position and focus on your breathing. Stop the chatter in your head and let the stillness flow through your body. This practise does wonders for the mind and the body.

13. You don’t have to gym to exercise
All you need to do is 10 minutes of activity, 3 x per day and you’ll feel energised. Walk the dog, toss a ball at your kids, do the garden, clean the house or dance to your favourite music.

14. Bring life into your house
Indoor plants can bring a sense of nature into your house. They also assist to filter and purify the air and looking after them provides a peaceful feeling.

15. Love yourself
Stop criticising and complaining about not being good enough. Start embracing the powerful, amazing creation that you are. The minute you love yourself and are kind to yourself, everything and everyone around you will reflect that back to you.