Your ABC of Health
By Philo Njenga

We've seen it time and again, in every bookstore that you step into. There are so many “How To” books and guides on how to improve our health and fitness. Actually it's been so much that every time we see another such article, we have no option but to exclaim “Oh no, not again”
The trouble is, its not that we don't want to see such guidelines. It's just that we want to see something that actually works when put to the test. Here's a guideline that every time you think of the alphabet, - and it's always there with us - it will point you to better health and fitness.
I assure you, it works. Try it!

Attitude: The first step is to think of it positively. If you want to be slimmer, don't think of “losing weight”, but think of “looking better”

Breakfast: For those who choose to go the 'diet' way, the one meal you shouldn't skip is breakfast. Rather, take a healthy nutritious breakfast to ensure that your body won't crave for food in between meals.

Consistency: Achieving better health is not something you can achieve in a week or fortnight. Keep at it, if you fail once in a while, - we all do - get back on your feet and don't give up!

Dream: When you feel like giving up and conclude that better health was never meant for you, think of what it will feel like to be better - looking or be able to wear that small black dress that you've always dreamt of!

Exercise: As much as you prefer to take the elevator instead of taking the stairs, exercise is the only sure way. It not only ensures that the better health is long-term; it also tones your muscles, leading to fitness.

Fruits: If you feel like munching something in between meals, don't deny your body. This will only strengthen 'the forbidden fruit syndrome' and make it crave for more and more. Instead, eat lots of fruits, and this will reduce the craving.

Goals: Set short term goals, e.g. “at the end of such and such a time, I want to have achieved this.” This will help you monitor your progress and see whether your goals match your capability.

Harmony: If you want to flatten your tummy, rather than concentrating on it alone, exercise the rest of the body also. This way, the whole body gains.

Interest: If there is no interest in what you are doing, you will lose enthusiasm after some time. Keep your interest up by reminding yourself that you can achieve it, that it's not as hard as it seems.

Jogging: If your circumstances can allow, jog early in the morning, as this not only improves your fitness, it will also help keep your spirits up throughout the day. If you can't, get an alternative form of exercise.

Keep it simple: Do it in small interesting steps rather than take on the whole world in one day. This will keep you going for longer.

Learn: There is always something to learn in everything that happens in this life. Don't take yourself so seriously that you forget to benefit from the tiny lessons that accompany the whole package.

Monitor your progress: Let a friend take your photograph before you start the program and keep it. Do this for several time periods. From these photographs, you will be able to tell whether there is any change. Moreover, take your weight every specified period of time and compare the results. It's best to do this in the morning. At this time, you won't have taken anything that will bias the results.