10 Habits Of Healthy People

Super-healthy type have more than a few things in common. Karen Fittall has unearthed their top lifestyle choices - here's how to make them work for you.

Everybody knows somebody who seems to be a walking health advert – you know the type – heck, you might even be one! They’ve been the same healthy weight forever, have endless energy and never seem to succumb to those seasonal colds and flus.

The good news is that while genetics play a role, lifestyle choices are likely to play an even bigger one, because the healthiest people all seem to have similar attitudes and behaviours. The even better news is that all of their habits are ‘steal-able’. Here’s what you need to know.

1.They don't let stress derail their health. Rather than ditching a workout for wine when times get stressful, healthy people hit the gym. Stress naturally makes us revert to our ‘default’ behaviours, so when a healthy activity is second nature, it’ll stick rather than slide when life gets hectic.

STEAL IT: Do the healthy activity you want to become your default behaviour at least four times a week. After six weeks, it’s much more likely to stick as a long-term habit, including when you’re under stress.

2.They’re glass half-full people. 

There’s a clear link between optimism and better health. Not only do glass-half-full people have higher antioxidant levels, stronger immune systems and healthier hearts, optimistic women live longer, too.

STEAL IT: Spend 10 minutes each morning writing down one achievable goal for the day, and a few things that you’re grateful for. After three weeks, you’ll feel more optimistic.

3.They’ve given up trying to be perfect.