Living in Australia provides us with ample opportunities to get outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and sunshine and sample a diverse diet. We are all busier than ever with seemingly limited time, but it is essential to prioritise a healthy lifestyle so we can continue to enjoy this wonderful country for many years to come!
Spending time outdoors is known to boost our mood, improve cardiovascular health and generally enhance our well being. We have all had a long, tiring day inside at the office which has put us in a mopey state of mind. Walking home in the fresh air or getting outdoors with our kids at home immediately changes our attitude! Australia has a breath taking landscape containing golden beaches, luscious rainforests, tree covered mountains and the red sandy desert. There is a wide variety of activities to enjoy - surfing the coast, hiking in national parks, playing sport outdoors with your kids, picnicking on the grass or simply taking a leisurely stroll around your neighbourhood. So find something you like doing outside and try to do it a little bit every day.
Living in Australia with its sunny climate and thinning ozone layer means we need to ensure we are protecting our largest organ, our skin, as well as our eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. It is even more important in the state of Tasmania where there is less pollution, meaning that the sun’s rays can reach us more easily. We know that prolonged exposure to the sun can increase our risk of cancer, as well as ocular problems, like cataracts. The best way to protect ourselves is with SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and finding some shade during the peak UV times. It is also advisable to get a regular skin check and eye test as early detection of any problems is always best.
Looking after the inside of our bodies is just as important as protecting the outside. Thankfully we live in a very multicultural country with a rich array of cuisines to suit every taste! The local farmer’s market is a great place to shop for fresh and seasonal fruit, veggies and meat. We know that highly processed and sugary foods should only be eaten occasionally and that portion size will also assist us in maintaining a suitable weight. The key to a healthy inside and high energy levels is a balanced diet - one that is full of things such as calcium, fibre, vitamins, antioxidants and water.
Staying hydrated is essential for optimal health, especially in a warm climate, and when leading an active lifestyle. We should all be aiming to drink at least 2 litres of water throughout the day. So grab a reusable bottle, fill it up as you need and you’ll be helping the environment as well as your own body!
Despite the many tasks we need to do each day, we must not forget to prioritise our mental health and well-being. Finding ways to combat stress, such as with mindfulness, yoga or meditation is very important. Having a strong support network and hanging out with friends and family will promote a sense of belonging and bring us joy. And if you are really struggling, it is imperative to seek help from a professional.
Staying proactive about your regular health checks is another way to contribute to your longevity. Practicing preventative healthcare by attending your routine health screenings and keeping up to date with vaccinations play a crucial role in the early detection and intervention of any issues found.
To ensure your children remain as healthy as possible, pop a pair of Sun Valley sunnies on their eyes, a hat on their head, sunscreen on their skin, grab their water bottle and a snack, a few friends and go kick a soccer ball at a nearby park!