Let’s face it, Christmas and caution don’t really go hand in hand (all that partying, drinking and consuming of calories) whereas the New Year and remorse do. When that remorse kicks in, we wonder what we can do to maintain being healthy. Neglecting it is something we’re all guilty of… and take perverse pleasure in doing. So we’re easing you in with some easy tips on how to engage your mind and body healthily.

Guilty pleasures
We spend so little time taking pleasure in the small things; when in fact, our delight in minutiae is what keeps most of us going. So don’t feel bad about loving that third cup of coffee, an occasional sext to your partner or that cheeky YouTube video while at work. It’s better to enjoy your day, rather than merely endure it.

Sweat it out
It can’t be said enough: you have to exercise. For at least 20 minutes three times a week. Not primarily to avoid a saggy bum (although that is a noble goal) but to keep your body fit and your mind upbeat. Also, it makes the mind less obsessive and broody – so you can enjoy yourself more and not sweat the small stuff. But if this is too daunting, just take a walk whenever you can, i.e. during your work commute or your weekend chores.

Practice moderation
This means not too much alcohol and sugar. When it comes to alcohol, stick to the recommended maximum alcohol consumption (2-3 units a day for women, 3-4 units for men). Sugar – like caffeine and tobacco – has psychological and consoling effects. It’s also extremely high in calories and low in nutrients so over-eating it, especially in processed food, is harmful. If you want to dine out, go to Garden Recipe (11-G, Jalan Solaris 4, Solaris Mont Kiara. 03 6203 0528/www.gardenrecipe.com.my) where the dishes employ the 3L1H motto: Low salt, Low Sugar, Low Oil and High Fibre. Dishes are steamed, grilled or deemed otherwise ‘healthy’.

Plan your meals
Draw up a weekly meal plan that incorporates what you require in the necessary amounts. By doing this, you’ll cut out the unnecessary snacking, pigging out at the mamak and calorie-heavy take-outs that you succumb to. Having a plan will guilt-trip you into cooking and eating your own meals, and if you include nutritious food and vitamins, so much the better. Okay, fine. In those instances where you have to eat out, we suggest going to The Yogitree (Gardens Mid Valley, KL. 03 2282 6163/www.yogitree.com). There isn’t a hint of chemicals, additives or preservatives in their primarily organic menu.

Sleep it off
Have a wind-down routine. Don’t eat much or consume alcohol or caffeine within four hours of going to bed. If you’re easily distracted, purchase a La Senza Silk Eye Mask (RM39) and Kyre:n Good Night Pillow Mist (www.kyren.eu), which contains calming ylang ylang, sandalwood and lavender to ease you into dreamland. Go to bed roughly the same time each night. Sleeping well is key to leading a stress-free life and rejuvenating your body. Good night’s sleep = good morning = productive day at work = no stress = healthier and happier you. Proper circadian cycles are the new black.