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If I could give you one tip . . . ‘Focus on one change at a time’

Orla Hopkins is a fitness contributor with RTÉ and co-founder of New Dimensions Active

Orla Hopkins: No matter how small the change is, as long as you feel the positive impact then it is making a difference

“If I could give one tip for wellness it would be to start small. Focus on one change at a time. Make small changes, don’t overthink things and set yourself realistic goals to avoid overwhelming yourself. I always say ‘keep it simple’ – no matter how small the change is, as long as you feel the positive impact then it is making a difference. If, like me, you like to keep track, grab a notebook. Start with three simple changes (ie drink more water, add in three exercise sessions per week, or take time for deep, conscious breaths each morning). I feel when I see it written, it’s easier to implement. Then it’s about not overthinking it but just doing it. Once you make that start you will thank yourself.

“Once your body begins to feel those feel-good endorphins, you are on the road to consistency. If three exercise sessions a week sounds unachievable to begin with, don’t worry: As I said, start small. So maybe begin with one session a week or simply make exercise part of your daily life. Try walking or cycling instead of using the car, get off the Luas, train or bus a stop early and walk the rest of the way. Get active around the house – wash the windows or get gardening, for example. Once you begin to reap the benefits of elevating your mood from exercising, in no time I’m sure you will feel the need to increase the amount of activity and on the path to living a healthier lifestyle.”