Put a spring in your step

After months of dreary, grey, winter weather, it is a huge relief that spring is finally here.

It's the start of longer days and nights and warmer temperatures, making it an ideal time of year to rethink old habits and to spring clean our health and wellbeing.

For many of us there are barriers to looking after ourselves as well as we'd like, as the pressures of work and family life can mean that there's little time to fit in exercise when our days are so busy.

A visit to the gym can feel at times like just another thing to add to the 'to do' list and something that can be easily ditched when life gets too hectic.

But it is worth taking time to consider the benefits of exercise and incorporating activity into life as a 'must do' because there are so many advantages.

In the long term, exercise improves health and wellbeing, reducing the risk of ill health, and in the short term a swim or bike ride floods the body with 'feel good' chemicals making us more energetic in everyday life.

According to the British Heart Foundation, which is encouraging people to sign up to its fundraising walks and runs, "Keeping fit not only makes people look and feel better, it also strengthens the heart and bones and improves circulation.

"It can also help lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels, control your weight and even reduce stress."

The charity says the golden rules of activity are to start gently, build up gradually and do it regularly. And, although visiting the gym is one way of toning the flesh and getting in shape, you don't have to follow this route.

Being on the move each day - even doing physical jobs around the house and in the garden - all make a difference.

The British Heart Foundation said: "You should try to be physically active for 30 minutes every day. This doesn't have to be an exercise class or a 30-minute run - although these are fine if you're already fit and active.

"A simple activity such as a brisk walk, washing the car by hand, cycling to the shops, gardening or vigorous housework all count."

Exercise also has huge benefits for mental wellbeing and the charity Mind says that physical activity reduces stress levels and prevents some of its damaging effects on the body.

It explains: "Research suggests that physical activity can lead to a change in body chemistry that can affect the way people feel, as well as their physical condition. And that's not all - exercise can also help to raise self-esteem and reduce anxiety and depression."

It is equally important to eat a healthy, balanced, diet to prevent health problems in the long run.

According to the NHS, healthy eating is really straightforward, even though it is sometimes seen as a complicated issue. Meals based on starchy foods such as rice and pasta, with plenty of fruit and vegetables (and not too much fat, salt or sugar) will give you all the nutrients you need, without the extra calories.

Staying active and eating well is very important and Westfield offers two benefits that can help people to achieve a fitter and healthier lifestyle. The first is a GP telephone consultation service, which provides access to a qualified practising GP 24 hours a day, every day. The GP can discuss all areas relating to health including exercise and nutrition. Another benefit that can be useful for those wanting to improve their lifestyle is the health club concession, which provides access to a national network of health clubs offering membership concessions.