Nourish yourself – our top 10 ways to eat well and feel amazing

Here at Eat Well NZ our mission is to help and inspire women to be the best, happiest version of themselves.

Here’s our ten guidelines for a nourished life:

* eat mainly natural, wholesome foods, including lots of vegetables and some fruit

These are the foods that provide your bodies with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals and the energy to feel and be at your best.  Include plently of vegetables – they’re so good for you!
* don’t forget you’re allowed to enjoy the foods you love

So you love chocolate?  pizza?  That’s fine! Just enjoy in moderation occasionally.  I honestly believe that unless we have some allergy to our favourite foods, then why not enjoy them occasionally.  It’s what you do 90% of the time that matters, so if you have something that’s not classified as a health food on the odd occasion, it’s not going to hurt.
* learn to love your body and have a healthy relationship with food

Women tend to have a bit of a rough relationship with their bodies.  While there is nothing wrong with wanting to look good, it’s likely there are going to be parts of your body that you like more than others.  I’ve got a big bum – I used to hate it and spend hours trying to hide it, but now I just accept that that’s how my body is made and I’m quite content with how I am.

Learn to work with what you have!  Women also tend to have a bit of an emotional relationship with food too. I’ve found focusing on being healthy (rather than skinny), learning to deal with emotions in a positive way and allowing some of your favourite foods in your diet can really help how you view food and help beat emotional eating.
* get involved in physical activity and be active every day

Being active is one of the best things you can do for your body and your mind. Do something active every day and you’ll feel better for it.

* learn to deal with stress in a positive way

Chronic stress is a part of life for many people, but it wreaks havoc on the body.   Find a way positive way to minimise stress in your life. Read more here and here

* get restful sleep for 7-9 hours a night

Sleep is more than just resting your body. In fact, when you’re asleep your brain is far from resting. It’s busy processing the days events, cementing memories, regulating hormones and metabolism.  Without enough sleep you won’t just be sleepy, you won’t be functioning at your best.  Lack of sleep is also related to weight gain.

* go easy on the caffeine and alcohol
Too much affects sleep quality and isn’t good for the health.

* practice gratitude

Remembering every day that there is something to be grateful for is an excellent way to remember that life is good, and that even if it’s been a tough day, there is always something positive.


* spend time with those who inspire you, make you laugh and make you feel good

Strong friendships with happy, positive people make you happier. So spend time with those you value and nuture those friendships.

* plan something to look forward to, big or small

What’s better than being excited about something coming up?  Having something to look forward to in the near future helps get you through those down times.

What are your favourite ways to feel happy + nourished?