Bonitas Member Magazine B-Living Issue 4 | Page 29

Take time ou t daily Drink less alcohol Much has been written about the health benefits of drinking a small amount of alcohol, but too much drinking is a problem, as it boosts your risk for conditions such as liver and heart disease, hypertension, stroke and mental deterioration, even cancer. Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink is good for your general health, decreasing your risk of developing serious health issues, improving your appearance and how you feel and positively influences your relationships and work. Take time out daily Make a promise to yourself to disconnect at least once a day. Closing your eyes and taking 10 deep breaths or playing soothing music on your commute. Try meditation to improve your mental health, so you can concentrate better and so you have a lower risk of contracting a disease. Take time out to spend more time reconnecting with family and friends regularly. Volunteer regularly Manage stress Long work hours, little sleep, no exercise, poor diet and not spending time with family and friends can contribute to stress. Stress increases your risk of or worsening conditions such as insomnia, depression, obesity and heart disease. Seek an outlet for your stress when things are spiralling out of control, such as talking things out with a trusted friend or meditation. Relaxation, sleep, socialising and taking a vacation can also assist with managing stress levels. B-Living Issue 4, 2017 Many of us think our own happiness relies only on us bettering ourselves, but it also increases when we help others. Volunteering can be good for your health and happiness, as positive emotions can make you more resilient, resourceful and less likely than your sad counterparts of developing a heart condition. Page 28