Small Steps: Making healthy lifestyle choices every day

1. PLAN YOUR FOOD

Planning your meals for the week ahead can be linked to a healthier diet and a reduced risk of obesity. Writing a list of all your meals and the ingredients you'll need for the week ahead means you're less likely to choose unhealthy foods when you go shopping, or be tempted by takeaways.

2. PADDLE POWER

Next time you plan a holiday, include activities that involve expending some energy. For example, kayaking is a great way to see some spectacular places while working out your arms and core. Try a kayaking trip past golden sand beaches and secluded bays in Abel Tasman National Park.

3. SWITCH OFF

Disconnecting from technology for a short time each day will help you to feel a little less overwhelmed by daily life. You can escape information overload and recharge your batteries, and if you do it at least an hour before bed, you'll sleep better as the light emitted by devices won't mess with your body clock.

4. LET'S DANCE

Dancing is great for your health - even shaking your groove thing around your living room for a few minutes is good aerobic activity that can also improve muscle tone. If you need a reminder, try out the free Dance Break app, which will play an upbeat song once a day to encourage you to bust some moves.

5. GIVE MEAT A MISS

On average, Kiwis eat over 70kg of meat a year according the a 2017 UN report into meat consumption in OECD countries. Limiting your meat intake can reduce your risk of developing conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Even cutting out meat one day a week can make a difference - give 'meatless Mondays' a go.