Thinking about how to live a sustainable and healthy life can be overwhelming, as there’s so much information out there - and how can we help to save the planet? Just by doing our small bit, though, we can indeed not only help our planet, we can also benefit other areas of our life, and improve both our physical and mental health.

APDO member Jennie Smith shares her ideas for healthy living.

Have you ever thought about walking instead of driving? If you can go on foot or cycle on short trips, this will not only improve your fitness, but also helps the environment.

I know from walking my Jack Russell every day that no matter the weather, whenever I leave the house, after even a short walk, I feel better. I get my circulation going, my heart rate increases and the feeling of fresh air and wind on my face always manages to lift my spirits.

Have you considered a walking or cycling holiday? This is a great way to explore, with the added satisfaction that you’re not increasing your carbon footprint.

Classes are a great way to unwind at the end of the day and the social side can be an added bonus.

Alternatively, if you prefer to exercise at home, you could try the NHS website, it offers free instructor-led exercise videos.

Don’t forget to carry a reusable water bottle, instead of purchasing disposable ones!

Just remember, that the most important thing is to choose exercise that you enjoy and even if you only do a small amount each day, it’s better than doing nothing at all.

In order to live sustainably, it's also helpful to remember how the food we eat can impact our climate. If you really want to make a difference, why not look into having an allotment? Not only will you have the benefit of keeping fit (with all that digging!), but you’ll also have the satisfaction of eating your own home-grown fruit and veg.

If you prefer to shop, why not try to choose locally-grown produce from your local supermarket or farmers’ market.

By adjusting your daily routine, you’ll be surprised at how easy it can be to include healthy and sustainable habits in your life.

For more healthy Living tips, visit the Bridge Drop in on Tuesdays and speak with Andrew!

*Article taken from APDO