As we welcome 2025, there’s no better time to set intentions and realistic health goals that can transform your health, without feeling overwhelmed or unrealistic. The key? Focusing on small, sustainable changes that fit seamlessly into your life. These intentions aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress and growth. Let’s make this year your healthiest yet with these 5 practical health tips, the May way.

Here’s how to create sustainable healthy habits…

1. Prioritise Gut Health

Realistic Health Goals include delicious healthy food - Creamy Vegan Vegetable Tamarind Curry- May Simpkin Nutritionist

Your gut health is at the core of your overall well-being; I cannot stress this enough. It’s fundamental to your overall health. A healthy gut not only supports digestion but also impacts your energy levels, immune system and even your mood.

How to Nourish Your Gut:

  • Add fermented foods like a live, probiotic natural yoghurt or kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and miso to your meals.
  • Include fibre-rich foods such as vegetables, whole grains, legumes and fruit to keep your digestion running smoothly.
  • Stay hydrated! Water is essential for optimal digestion.

Quick Tip: Start your day with a green tea or even a small glass of (warm) water to rehydrate after the night.

2. Daily Movement: A Foundation for Health

Realistic Health Goals; movement with Joy! | May Simpkin | Nutritionist

Forget the “all or nothing” fitness mindset. The best movement is the one you genuinely enjoy and look forward to doing. When you love what you’re doing, consistency becomes effortless. Realistic health goals are achievable when you find yourself effortlessly practising them.

Ways to Move with Joy, Not Obligation:

  • Swap rigid gym schedules for walks with friends or family. Or, if like me you prefer walking alone, use the time to connect with others with a “walk & talk”!
  • Try yoga, hiking or gardening or even dancing around your living room combined with housework!
  • Experiment with new activities like a local fitness class or cycling to rediscover the fun in movement.

Quick Tip: Block out just 10 minutes for movement; it often leads to more without feeling like a chore.

3. Plan Your Plate

Simple and Realistic Health Goals with the Right Meal Portions and Proportions - May Simpkin - Nutritionist

Healthy meals with the right portions and proportions for 2025 intentions

A well-balanced plate takes the guesswork out of eating and ensures your body gets all the nutrients it needs to not only thrive but also banish the cravings.

The Simple Plate Method:

  • 50% Veggies: Aim for a colourful variety to provide plenty of vitamins and antioxidants.
  • 25% Protein: Include lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu or legumes.
  • 25% Complex Carbs: Think quinoa, sweet potatoes, brown rice or whole grains.

Quick Tip: Batch cook roasted vegetables or quinoa on Sundays to make weeknight meals a breeze.

4. Master the Art of Mindful Eating

Eating isn’t just about fueling your body, it’s also about enjoying the process. Slowing down can improve digestion, prevent overeating and help you reconnect with your body’s natural hunger cues.

How to Eat Mindfully:

  • Sit down at a table (no screens!) and savour each bite.
  • Pay attention to the textures, flavours and colours of your meal.
  • Chew slowly to aid digestion and help you feel satisfied sooner.

Quick Tip: Put your fork down between bites to naturally pace yourself.

5. Prioritise Sleep as Non-Negotiable

Sleep is the ultimate form of self-care. It’s when your body repairs itself, your mind resets and your energy is restored for the day ahead. Treat it as a priority, not an afterthought.

How to Improve Your Sleep:

  • Create a calming bedtime routine; think herbal tea, a warm bath or reading a book.
  • Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet to encourage deep sleep.
  • Limit caffeine and screen time at least 1-2 hours (or longer if necessary) before bed.

Quick Tip: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

The May Way: Realistic Health Goals that Offer Progress Over Perfection

Remember, these intentions aren’t about rigid rules, they’re about small, consistent changes that feel good and work for you. Start with one or two of these tips and build from there. It’s not about doing everything at once; it’s about taking steps that move you closer to your healthiest self.

Which of these intentions resonates most with you? Let me know in the comments below!

Health Retreats in the Loire Valley, France | May Simpkin | Nutritionist

My 2025 Health Retreat at Chateau de la Vigne in the Loire Valley France

By joining me at the retreat this June 4th – 8th, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to embrace all five of these intentions; nourishing your body, mind and soul in a truly transformative and supportive environment.

CLICK HERE for details  4 spots left

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