During these unsettling times, it is very difficult to think about nurturing ourselves. Our focus is very much on our country, community and on our immediate family. But the reality is that we can’t take care of others if we don’t first take care of ourselves. I feel that I can speak from experience here. I have three full time jobs--scientist, author and mom--and when I am not feeling well, everything unravels and everyone suffers. At the start of this New Year, I urge you focus on your health. When you are strong, there is no end to how much you can help others.

I encourage you to follow my five top health strategies that are outlined below. I have chosen these strategies because they are easy to follow and have a big impact on health and well-being.

Eat Well: No matter how busy you are, take time to eat well. And I believe that eating well is not as difficult as it may seem. My personal strategy is to make sure that everyday, no matter how busy I am, I try to do the following:

Drink plenty of water

Eat at least several fruits and vegetables

Eat a protein rich food at every meal (especially yogurt, other dairy foods, soy, beans, eggs and fish)

Eat at least mostly whole grains

Eat organic foods whenever possible

Increase your overall physical activity: work hard to decrease the amount of time spent in sedentary activities and break a sweat from exercise at least once a week.

Strength Train: at least a couple of times each week try to do some strengthening exercises to nurture your muscles and bones.

Take time to relax: I urge you to try to make time to relax for at least a few minutes each day. It is worth its weight in gold!

Finally, think positively about yourself and others. When you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday chaos and confusion, take a step back to be grateful for family, friends, and health. Think positively about yourself and speak well of others -- it’s amazing how kindness can soothe the soul.