Michael Mosley is renowned for his straightforward health advice, including the 5:2 diet, frequently discussed on his popular podcast, Just One Thing. Here are 11 of his most distinctive and effective tips.
11. Stand on one leg while brushing your teeth
While initially challenging, this technique activates various muscle areas such as the core, glutes, and legs. Consistent practice can fortify these muscles, boost coordination and balance, and elevate your general physical capabilities.
10. Chew slowly
Thoroughly chewing your food helps break it down, easing digestion for your stomach. Eating slowly allows hormones to signal your brain that you’re full, reducing hunger and aiding in weight loss.
9. Break up exercise into chunks
Dividing exercise into short 5-10 minute intervals throughout the day is just as effective as a single 30-minute session. This method offers similar benefits for fat, glucose, and insulin levels, and it often integrates more easily into daily routines.
8. Do mental arithmetic under pressure
Exposing yourself to short bursts of stress, such as quickly solving math problems or speaking in public, can be advantageous. It enhances both mental and physical capabilities and has widespread positive effects on the brain, body, cardiovascular, and immune systems.
7. Sing, sing, sing
Singing increases your brain’s endocannabinoid levels, creating a genuine feeling of euphoria. It benefits both the brain and body, improves posture and breathing, and reduces muscle tension. Studies show it can effectively relieve pain and decrease cortisol, the stress hormone. Reading poetry also provides similar cognitive benefits.
6. Eat chocolate
Eating a few pieces of dark chocolate each day can have a positive impact on blood pressure and heart health, and it may improve cerebral blood circulation. These benefits are due to the flavonoids found in cocoa. It’s crucial that the chocolate is dark to reap these benefits.
5. Volunteer
Volunteering can enhance self-esteem and overall happiness, and alleviate symptoms of depression. Studies also indicate it might lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Seniors aged 65 and older who volunteer often experience better physical and mental health.
4. Take a cold shower
Michael Mosley promoted the advantages of cold showers. Studies show that exposure to cold water can reduce blood pressure, alleviate symptoms of type 2 diabetes, and reduce chronic inflammation. Regular cold water swimmers also report fewer infections and less time off due to illness.
3. Walk backwards
Walking backward can improve balance, slim the waist, and alleviate back pain. It strengthens core and leg muscles, enhances balance and flexibility, and reduces the risk of falls. Moreover, it increases calorie expenditure and can assist in reducing body fat.
2. Ideally in the rain…
Walking during or after rainfall is beneficial, possibly because of negative ions. These invisible, odorless molecules form around moving water, such as rain hitting the ground. They are thought to purify the air and improve mood, reduce stress, and boost energy levels.
1. Be kind
Interestingly, performing acts of kindness can greatly enhance our health. It can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of various serious illnesses. Moreover, it helps relieve stress and improve emotional well-being.