365 STEPS TO SELF-CONFIDENCE
A poor diet lowers the body’s resistance to disease, drains it of energy and
inhibits the efficient workings of the brain. Educate your taste buds to
appreciate fresh, nutritious, easily digested, cruelty-free foods and keep the
poisons (chemical additives, artificial sweeteners, etc) out of your system.
The ideal diet for most people is approximately 60% fresh fruit and
vegetables, 20-25% whole grains, 10% (maximum) protein foods and
10% (maximum) fats. Compare these proportions with your current
eating habits. What changes do you need to make?165Drink small amounts frequently. The equivalent of eight average sized
glasses of water a day boosts the metabolic rate (burning more calories),
eliminates waste cells from the body, improves skin tone and deters a
host of minor ailments. Go easy on the alcohol. Avoid drinking at
mealtimes (this dilutes the digestive juices), especially tea and coffee
which inhibit mineral absorption.166A plentiful supply of fresh, clean air is essential for good health. Deep
breathing supplies much-needed oxygen to the brain and helps
eliminate waste products and dead cells.
Do some deep breathing every day. Fill your lungs completely,
expanding your ribs and stomach outward, and hold for a count of
four. Breathe out through the mouth. Gradually increase the count
from four to six, eight, or ten (if comfortable). Do ten of these deep
breaths at least three times every day. (NB: if you start feeling dizzy or
faint, stop at once.)167Get fit. You gain a terrific feeling of confidence and wellbeing from
knowing you look good and can cope physically with life’s demands.
Take regular exercise. It builds stamina and fitness, increases your
resistance to disease and promotes a more youthful appearance. It
releases endorphins (the ‘happy hormones’) into the bloodstream,
bringing a feeling of general wellbeing. Commit yourself to taking at
least 20 minutes’ aerobic exercise every day. Choose something you
enjoy – walking, cycling, swimming, dancing or whatever.168