5 Little Lifestyle Changes That Are Just A Bit Better For You
100% of the deliciousness you know and love without any of the added sugar
Hands up if you went into iso with big plans to cook more, get more sleep, and finally learn how to keep a plant alive.
Little changes like this can add up until suddenly you realise you’re looking great, feeling amazing and, if we’re being honest, you love your indoor fern more than anything and anyone in your life.
Improving your life doesn’t have to be about completely overhauling it. Sometimes, it’s just about drinking more water or choosing a healthier version of your favourite treat, like the new Dairy Farmers Classic flavoured milk range with no sugar added and wholesome fresh milk.
These small changes are easier to start and build over time, which makes it more likely you’re going to stick it out in the long run. To help you smash your self-improvement goals, we’ve rounded up five little lifestyle changes that can make a big different.
#1 Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier
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If you struggle to get anything done in the morning, experts say the answer could be as simple as waking up earlier.
Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier, and set a goal for what you’re going to do with the extra time. You might journal, stretch, or spend some quality time with your cat. Whatever you do, the important thing is that you’re setting aside some ‘me time’ before you hit the gym or start reading emails.
And if you’re concerned about missing out on those precious minutes of sleep, go to bed 10, 15, or even 20 minutes earlier to make up for it. It’s much less overwhelming than setting a goal to get a solid eight hours every night.
#2 Get outdoors
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Trying to show yourself some extra TLC? One of the best things you can do for your physical and mental wellbeing is spend time outside.
Mother nature is really an overachiever when it comes to improving your life. Studies show that spending even just 20 minutes a day outside can lower stress, boost our self-esteem, and make us feel happier.
And, even better, it doesn’t matter whether you live near a huge park or have a few plants in your backyard. Just being out in the sun (“no hat, no play” rules still apply to kids and adults) around some greenery is a big “treat yourself” vibe for your body and mind.
#3 Drink more water
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I don’t know who needs to hear this, but you should drink more water.
A general guideline is that men should drink 2.5 litres and women should try for 2 litres every day. Basically, drink water throughout the day and whenever you feel thirsty (duh). Even just mild dehydration can cause moodiness, headaches, fatigue, and lead to trouble concentrating.
If you’re struggling, buy a bottle that tracks your water intake, add a squeeze of lemon, or see if you prefer drinking warm water. And remember: lots of drinks can contribute to your water intake, including milk and juice, but the most effective is H20, baby.
And if you want to double down, drink a glass first thing in the morning before you even think about coffee or right before you go to bed.
#4 Choose healthier alternatives to your favourite treats
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You’re doing great, sweetie, and it’s important to reward yourself for all your hard work.
Instead of “accidentally” inhaling an entire block of chocolate, why not reach for a healthy snack? There are so many tasty treats that are good for you and still delicious. Trade chips for toasted almonds or sprinkle some cinnamon on fresh apple slices. Even choosing the no sugar added version of your favourite snack can help make a difference.
Dairy Farmers Classic has just launched a new chocolate and a new strawberry flavoured milk that have no sugar added and a 4.5 Health Star rating. Trust us, they’ll absolutely become your next go-to when you want to treat yourself.
#5 Do meal prep for the week
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It’s like Tom Haverford said in Parks and Recreation: “Sometimes, you’ve got to work a little so you can ball a lot.” That was true for him starting his own business, and it’s sure as hell true for meal prep.
Set aside some time every week to cook a big batch of food that’ll last you for the next few days, prepare individually portioned meals, or peel, slice, and roast ingredients to use in recipes throughout the week. Just remember to store everything correctly!
You’ll save money, eat healthier, and cut your cooking time in half. Master of multitasking!
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With a 4.5 Health Star Rating, Dairy Farmers Classic No Sugar Added flavoured milk range is a treat you can feel good about.
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(Lead image: Jess Bailey / Unsplash)