Dawn of a new you

The New Year is a chance to reflect and renew, writes Dr John Deady, of Bulli Medical Practice

After the bushfires in late 2019, and two years of Covid, many of us are feeling worn out. We’ve had to adapt to new living, working and learning conditions and the constant change in is tiring.

Many patients have described feeling particularly fatigued as we’ve come out of lock-down restrictions and returned to semi-normal life.

The New Year provides opportunity to reflect on what we’ve achieved over the past year, and re-charge for the year ahead.

It is also a time to do-away with bad habits and embrace positive change.

Here are a few tips to help you revitalise in 2022.

1. Move more and get outside: Many of us took to walking outside during the lockdown restrictions, discovering new and beautiful walks within the Wollongong LGA. While gyms and pools and group exercise classes have all started up again, you should continue exploring the natural beauty of our neighbourhood.

2. Eat well: Try to eat more vegetables, including different types and colours. Limit intake of foods containing saturated fat, added salt, added sugars. Drink more water and less alcohol.

3. Rest well: Sleep helps to restore the body physically, as well as organise the brain. Try to get around seven or eight hours of sleep every night, and practice good sleep hygiene, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

4. Keep social: Socialising reduces stress and anxiety and improves mental functioning which helps guard against depression, heart disease
and dementia.

Remember you can always socialise when exercising, by having an exercise buddy, or participating in a team sport or fitness group.

5. Get a check-up: An annual visit to your doctor is important for all ages. Your GP can check for current or emerging medical problems, assess your risk of future issues, help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and ensure your vaccinations are up to date.