Good health is wealth. As we move into the new year 2012, here's a refresh on the rules of good health.

Good health is wealth. As we move into the new year, here's a refresh on the rules of good health.

RULE 1: Every morning, say one positive thing about yourself to yourself.
This sets the tone for the day, and a day begun well is most likely to go well. Positive messages to yourself help you improve your self-esteem. For example, a positive reaffirmation can be, “I am a kind person, so today I am going to be kind no matter what.“

RULE 2: Begin the day with two glasses of plain water and try and replace at least 50 per cent of your favourite caffeinated beverages with green tea. By switching to green tea, you get mega doses of antioxidants which are good for the heart and skin. Green tea is also easy on the stomach and the absence of caffeine keeps you calm.
Also fulfill your hydration requirements by consuming soups and vegetable juices.


RULE 3: Eat a meal of sprouts every second day. They are a powerhouse of good health, good for losing weight, protecting the liver and enhancing the glow on your face. Sprouts can be made of alfalfa seeds, mung, lobhia and black channa.

RULE 4: Sleep well for at least six to eight hours a night.
Sleep is like medicine for the mind and body. Sleep deprivation results in premature ageing, irritability and a short temper.

RULE 5: The total elimination of fast foods, ready to eat foods and packet foods may not be possible. But resolve to limit your consumption of these foods to just three meals a week. Such moderation will be helpful in the long run.

RULE 6: Replace 50 per cent of your flour-based food with whole grain-based food (such as dalia, unpolished rice, poha or dal with chilka). You get more minerals, protecdal with chilka). You get more minerals, protection against cancer and greater weight loss.

RULE 7: Drink alcohol in moderation, and gradually shift from potent liquor to fine wines. The maximum permissible level for health is two glasses of wine a day.

RULE 8: Exercise to destress and to tone your body. You should exercise not only for weight loss, but also to develop strong knees.

RULE 9: Laughter remains the best medicine.

RULE 10: Say your prayers and express your gratitude every day. Prayers can heal and correct every hurdle in life.