Finally, finally I am getting back on the wagon. I’m convinced that the week either side of New Years’ Eve has some kind of special mojo that enables me to achieve things I have been struggling with all year. New Years’ Eve is my most favourite day of the year, followed closely by the 1st of January, so I am always at my happiest at this point in the year. Maybe that has something to do with the recent upturn in my ability to progress in my goals.

Maybe it also has something to do with the fact that I have finally unwound enough from my hectic second year at uni to begin enjoying my summer holidays. It could also be because, lately, life has mostly consisted of this sort of thing:

Photos by Blair Holloway.

Exercise

I got three comments on my last post, so I worked out for the last three mornings, and I have remembered how much I love daily exercise. Over the past four days I have done:

• one hour of cardio (dancing)
• 45 minutes of weights
• 45 minutes of yoga
• two hours of walking (to and from trains and buses, to and from the supermarket, and around the city)

I am really, really proud of myself and I’m going to continue the daily exercise as much as possible (except tomorrow when Boyfriend and I are going out of town for the day, but I’ll try and get in some walking on the beach).

Diet

I have been eating much better for the past five days (though I’m still eating some rubbish, don’t get me wrong). My breakfasts have been variations on this theme:

Not only is it healthy, but it looks stunning (well, before the big dollop of yoghurt and LSA goes on), which greatly enhances my enjoyment of it.

Lunch has mainly been vegetables and beans with toast, and I’ve cut down on junk food snacking, replacing it with rye toast, fruit or oats. I’m still eating wheat, which is something I need to wean myself off as it makes me bloat so much that I look three or more months pregnant — not healthy. That will be my aim for this week.

Whenever I’m home for dinner, I get a healthy meal, because I live with my mother and sister who cook traditional Indian dinners for the three of us. The problem begins when I go out for dinner. Boyfriend and I often eat rubbish. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve had takeaway for dinner this month, partly because I’ve lost count, and partly because I know the number is shameful. I know he would co-operate if I told him I wanted to eat better when we’re together, so I shall do so.

I’m generally feeling optimistic and, well, happy!

Does your mood impact your ability to live healthily?