Good-for-you ideas to help you maintain healthier habits in the new year

We’re a month into the new year and many of us are trying to start or maintain healthier habits. Here with some good-for-you ideas for these cold winter months, we welcomed food and lifestyle expert Pay Chen.

Many people made resolutions to focus on their physical wellness in the new year, but there’s a trend to include broader self-care. This includes finding ways to engage and energize your mind and not just your body. 

“It’s particularly important because we have been spending so much time indoors,” said Chen. “It’s great to find a fun way for kids and adults to keep their mind active and stimulated.”

Big Brain Academy: Brain vs Brain 

Chen recommends for kids who love to play games, a new game called Big Brain Academy: Brain vs Brain. It allows players of all ages to go against family and friends in a series of activities that test your wits. The game allows you to set your own difficulty level. 

Clover Leaf Bistro Bowls

Then, for the busy or unpredictable days when there’s no time to make lunch, Chen recommends grabbing something that’s convenient, but also healthy. 

She says Clover Leaf Bistro Bowls are easy to stock-up on and keep in the pantry, because no refrigeration is needed. They come in three flavours including: Mexican Rice, Spanish Medley and Mediterranean Pasta.

Almond Milk

Chen says a growing trend in food is that of consumers who want to make more mindful food choices and look for ways to include more plant-based options in their diets. She notes that eating more plants is also one way we can fight climate change. 

She likes to support a Vancouver-based company called Earth’s Own. She says their almond milk is a great swap for dairy and is an easy way to experiment with plant-based eating. The company launched a Plant Project where they provide support and up to $25,000 in funding for innovative community projects. 

Ketch Shoes

This is another Canadian company based out of the west-coast. From slippers to comfy shoes and boots, it’s a new online retailer that carries a selection of well-loved brands that provide comfort and style. 

Chen says they are great for working at home, but if you want to get outside, a great sneaker/boot hybrid that’s waterproof from Ketch may encourage you to get out.