How To Kick-Start The New Year!

It’s the perfect (and traditional) time to set some fresh goals, so why not try something slightly unusual? Here are 14 ways to get your new year off to a healthy start.

- Beverley Hadgraft

The beginning of a new year is the ideal time to give your lifestyle an overhaul. So we’ve come up with some easy New Year’s resolutions we think you’ll love. They’re fun to do and could potentially make a huge difference to your health.

1 TAKE UP PING-PONG

This could just be one of the more fun ways to take care of your brain health! A Japanese study comparing the mental ability of table tennis players with that of non-players found the players were more mentally agile, even in older age, which means it could prevent or delay senile dementia. Playing pingpong enhances the parts of the brain responsible for movement, fine motor skills and strategy, says Dr Wendy Suzuki, professor of neuroscience and psychology at New York University.

2 DECLUTTER

Start the year by clearing the decks – it will make way for calm and help you achieve your goals. A swathe of international research has concluded that decluttering your work and living spaces helps your brain focus, increases productivity and creativity, and decreases stress. Deal with one space at a time, and if you need assistance, there are experts who can help. Find a professional online: there are dozens of excellent local organiser businesses that can help with everything from decluttering your house to clearing your diary of to-do lists.

3 WALK BEFORE BEDTIME