He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything' goes the saying. In today's busy life, we often forget to take care of our health. Merely visiting health centers does not help much. There are certain simple things which can be done without taking any extra pains and spending time. Here are some steps to a healthy body and mind: s

Move More

Always look for ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog, chase your kids, toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster.

Cut Fat

Avoid fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats. Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts.

Quit Smoking

If you are a smoker, quit now. If you see others smoking, try to persuade them to give up. If you can't, try to keep away. Second hand smoking is almost as harmful as first hand smoking. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Bollywood smokers.

Reduce Stress

Stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like such as soaking in a hot tub, walking on the beach or in a park, reading a good book, visiting a friend, playing with your dog, listening to soothing music, watching a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible.

Protect Yourself from Pollution

If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is poor. Plant lots of shrubs in your yard.

Avoid Excessive Drinking

While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer.

Know your genetic pool well

The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you.

Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.