If you’re feeling the effects of Christmas overindulgence, it can be tempting to resort to extreme measures in a bid to “jump-start” a healthy regime. But before you reach for the laxative tea or initiate a juice cleanse … stop. If you want to make some long-lasting changes this January, instead of hitting the juice, try to develop some sustainable healthier habits:

Cut down on processed foods

Rather than boycotting entire food groups, try to eat less heavily processed foods. Instead, focus on eating a rainbow of real, whole foods that have been “messed with” as little as possible.

Drink more water

Studies have shown that drinking water before a meal will make you feel fuller sooner, so you’re less likely to overindulge.

Eat consciously and slowly

Taking the time to really savour your food will allow you to listen to your body; to feel when you’re full, rather than just cleaning your plate.

Try ‘urge surfing’ to combat cravings

Rather than fighting the urge, or giving in to it, stay with the feelings in your body, noticing them with curiosity - while also paying attention to your breath - until they subside.

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep

When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces a hormone that leads to increased appetite (and reduced willpower). So whilst getting to bed early might not seem very rock ‘n’ roll, if you want to look, think and feel like a rock star, you need to be in bed by 10.

Jo Steer is a teacher and experienced leader of SEND interventions and wellbeing strategies