Twinings speciality teas help create healthy changes all-year round

CEBU, Philippines - It’s never too late to start the year right. There is no right or wrong, or time limit when it comes to revamping one’s lifestyle. The realization of the need to pay attention to one’s health is the best time to begin fitting in much-needed changes. Here are some simple ways to pave the way for a healthier, happier and better you:

1. Smile more often. Radiate a positive and friendly aura to attract more positive vibes this year. People are naturally drawn to a person who exudes happiness and positivism. One also gets a free and natural face and mood-lift by smiling. Studies show that smiling releases endorphins, brain chemicals which are natural pain killers that make one feel good. Smiling won’t tire facial muscles either. It actually takes fewer muscles to smile than to frown – muscles that tone and tighten for a natural facelift!

A stunning smile, however, won’t be complete without a good set of teeth. So pick up a cup of Twinings Classic Black Tea more often, proven to be a natural source of fluoride, which fights cavities and strengthens teeth. Try Twinings Earl Grey Tea and flash those pearly whites today!

2. Flex those muscles – sneak in some exercise. Lack of time is a common excuse for not exercising. For those who really don’t have much spare time and are too busy to make a regular trip to the gym, find opportunities to incorporate exercise and activity throughout the day. Skip the elevator ride and opt to take the stairs instead. Leave the car or choose the farthest parking spot in the lot and take a brisk walk while doing simple errands or going to a nearby destination. Stretching and doing some flexes (of the legs and arms, and even the neck) while sitting at the desk are also some simple activities that will surely help burn more calories and improve blood circulation.

After all these activities, strenuous or not, do not forget to re-hydrate. Remember though that water is not the only source of fluids. Tea is another good source of healthy fluids because it is low in calories and carbohydrates, but rich in antioxidants, proven to protect body cells from damage. Try Twinings Four Red Fruits, one of the variants under the wide range of Twinings Flavoured Black Teas, where each person is sure to find a blend that will suit and satisfy one’s preference, taste, and mood.

3. Eat less oily foods. Be kind to your heart and cut back on fatty and cholesterol-rich foods. One easy way of doing this is to carefully read food labels when in the grocery. One can also keep fat and cholesterol at bay by substituting marbled beef and other red meats with a portion of vegetables sautéed with seafood during mealtimes. When dining out, minimizing toppings, sauces and side dishes is another easy way to take control of calories. Then, after every meal, enjoy a cup of Twinings Green Tea & Lemon, which lowers cholesterol levels and the risk of heart attack preventing artery blockages. Most research on green tea and cholesterol show that benefits are noticeable with at least five cups daily.

4. Pay back sleep debt. Not getting enough sleep makes one cranky, sluggish and unfocused. Hit the sack earlier and catch at least seven hours of sleep for more energy and focus in tackling day-to-day tasks. Clear the mind from worries and relax by dimming the lights and listening to soothing music. Avoid drinking beverages with caffeine at night as this can cause restlessness and difficulty in falling asleep. Get a good night’s sleep with Twinings Pure Flowers of Chamomile Herbal Infusion, an ideal caffeine-free bed-time drink made with pure chamomile flowers that soothe and calm the senses.

5. Keep on trying . Don’t get discouraged when you fall short on these efforts, especially if the lapse happens early in the year. When this happens, pick yourself up and keep on trying. Take each day one at a time and always maintain a positive, “can-do” attitude. With Twinings’ 21 speciality tea blends that include a wide range of Classic Black Teas, Flavoured Black Teas, Green Teas, and Fruit and Herbal Infusions, you will be a healthier and happier person, welcoming 2010!

Now is a good time to start the healthy habit of drinking tea everyday. Be sure to make any moment a Twinings moment by picking up and enjoying a choice cup of Twinings speciality tea any time of the day, the way you enjoy it – hot or cold, with or without milk, honey or lemon. With Twinings’ wide range of speciality teas, there is a blend that is the perfect partner in one’s pursuit of health and wellness.