I always encourage my patients to make healthier lifestyle changes that will support their constitution and undo the effects of a stressful / sedentary routine. Below are the links to local individuals and groups who provide a honest healthy option in Norwich.

Yoga – yes from stress to insomnia to infertility, I’m always recommending yoga as a cheap and accessible way to improve circulation, calm the mind and get you functioning optimally. Lou Kitchener, Joss GuinJessica McKenna and Michelle Busettil all run excellent regular classes.

Healthy eating – Norwich Farmshare is a great option for locally grown organic veg in which you help support local trade. Norwich Market has an excellent organic fruit and veg shop and of course Rainbow Health Foods in the city centre provides a plethora of food free from GM and pesticides. Harveys are an organic butchers with a brilliant reputation.

Vitamins / supplements / body care – The Natural Food Shop opposite Jarrolds is my first choice. Not only is the stock of high quality but the staff all have additional training in what is and isn’t safe for you to take. Great for body lotions and creams that are free from parabens and sulphates. Simply Soaps are a local skincare company that I have used for years – again beautifully scented with essential oils and not much else!

Herbalist – I often advise people to try herbs – especially for skin and menopausal complaints. Andrew Chevallier is a first rate medical herbalist and has helped many of my patients and family members. Naji Malak uses Chinese herbs and again is absolutely superb and highly recommended.

Massage – Both San Jaspal and Jessica Carey come highly recommended and work in Norwich city centre. San switches between full body, reflexology and head massage which undoes weeks of stress every time.

Meditation –  Norwich Buddhist Centre runs regular drop in sessions for beginners and advanced, there are even short classes at lunchtime. There are also hundreds of short meditation videos on You Tube which can get you in the habit of switching off for 10 mins of the day.

Getting moving in nature – turning your mobile phone off and spending a little time out in the elements can have a wonderfully nourishing affect on the body. Try Strumpshaw Fen, Earlham Park, Marriots Way and Whittingham park for nearby nature.

Getting fit – there are plenty of running groups such as parkrun which do 5km every week. For cardio combined with FUN try zumba queen – seriously the most fun I have had in a long time. The UEA has a great swimming pool – another non time consuming way to keep fit at all levels.

Whether you’re a full time mum or full time office workaholic it”s important to take at least 10 mins of the day consciously doing something for yourself. It can be your short walk in the park at lunchtime – or a 5 min You Tube relaxation video when the kids are in bed. It all adds up. Your body wants to be healthy – it wants to be energised in the day and to sleep soundly at night. And if you’re not feeling that? Well then you definitely need to start making those tiny changes now!