Let’s face it, we all tend to spiral out of mental and physical control toward the end of the year.  With holiday chaos, like shopping, cooking, parties, and still maintaining a job, our stress levels are sky-high and our eating/exercise habits are at an all-time low.  The new year is all about rejuvenation.
Many of us want quick fixes for any damage we’ve done.  Not only do we want to jump on the new fad diet, but some of us may even think to pop some magic pills to lose weight, increase metabolism, help us sleep or improve our overall mood.
Well, those fads and pills do more harm than good.  I don’t know about you, but I’m even weary of taking aspirin for a headache.  If I have an ailment or find myself in a funk, I try to evaluate what is going on in my life that is causing the problem.
Here are a few tips and alternatives to those mood-altering pills.
Eat More Whole Foods
No, I’m not telling you to eat at Whole Foods, or even shop there.  By whole foods, I mean not processed: fruits, vegetables, potatoes, whole grains, etc.  What you eat plays a huge part of how you feel mentally and physically.  Processed foods cause poor digestion, fatigue, and are usually laden with nasty chemicals.  Next time you go to the grocery store, check the ingredients in what you’re buying.  If it has under 10 ingredients and you can pronounce them, go for it.  If it has a slew of complicated ingredients and tons of sugar, put it back on the shelf.  This may sound like a tedious and difficult way to live, but trust me, you’ll feel 100% better all around.  You’ll be surprised how much you start to actually value the flavor of a simple bowl of fruit or veggies.
Don’t “go on a diet”!
I know you know this, but a diet was never intended as something you “go off of”.  A diet is what you eat.  So, don’t think of the word like you used to — make it a lifestyle like you’re supposed to.  If you’re worried about going out with your family and friends, who may eat processed, fatty foods, try getting some health-conscious people in your life.  Join an online community even.  It will be much easier if you have someone who understands your lifestyle.  Once your old friends and family see how happy you are, they just might be encouraged to make changes in their life as well.
Replace Soda/Sports Drinks with Probiotic Beverages

Ditch those sugary, carbonated beverages that are nothing but bad for you with flavorful healthy drinks that give back to your body.  KeVita is a wonderful brand that makes sparkling probiotic drinks in delicious flavors like Mango Coconut, Lemon Ginger, Blueberry Cherry, and my personal favorite, Tangerine.  Probiotics are important to our immune systems.  If you’re someone who gets sick easily or have digestive problems, these tasty beverages can help!

Try Herbal Supplements
Okay, so maybe the thought of herbs healing your ailments sounds all too hippy-dippy to you, but herbal supplements combined with proper diet and sleep can really turn your life around.  One brand I really love is Pacific Herbs.  You can brew their products like tea and the taste is surprisingly pleasant.  If you suffer from anxiety, the Relax Herb Pack is perfect for you.  Pacific Herbs has a healing pack for just about anything you can think of, from PMS to increasing your libido, to acne, and pain relief.  Some items can get pricey, but think about how much prescriptions can cost, and there is no risk of getting addicted to these herbs, like you can with most medications.  I have only tried the Relax Herb Pack so far, and it helped me through a very anxious time in my life.  I intend on trying some of Pacific Herbs other products soon.
Apple Cider Vinegar is a Cure-All!

You’ve probably heard the benefits of apple cider vinegar before.  Each website has its own arm’s length list of uses.  I began using it for acid reflux, but soon found myself taking it like a daily vitamin.  Not only does the vinegar relieve reflux and other tummy issues, it soothes sore throats, said to lower cholesterol, relieve cold symptoms, clears up dandruff and acne, boosts energy, rids bad breath, whitens teeth, and helps control blood sugar.  Seriously, this stuff is a miracle drug.  I have already fought off two oncoming colds this winter with a daily dose of ACV!  Not to mention, I never have acid reflux anymore.
*Please note that these tips are from personal experience and research.

Tried any of these tips/products?  Have tips of your own?  Please share in the comments section below!