When was the last time you stopped and took a long, hard look at yourself? With days getting over before you know it, life can get so busy at times that you tend to forget to look after yourself. Don't worry though. You can make improvements in your daily routine, which can make your lifestyle better and healthier. Here are some quick tips...

Keep yourself hydrated
When you are dehydrated, it slows down your blood flow leaving you tired and listless. Drink water when you wake up to give yourself a boost of energy. Make it a point to drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water during the day.

Don't skip breakfast
While skipping any meal isn't good, missing your breakfast is one of the biggest mistake you can make. Research shows that skipping breakfast makes one burn fewer calories during the day. This is especially true for those on a diet. Several dieters assume that a skipped meal is beneficial in reducing the calorie intake when this isn't true at all.

Have snacks
Snacking can actually be good, however, ensure that what you eat is healthy. Snacking on dried fruit, low fat cheeses or yoghurts can keep your metabolism running on high gear and keep you energetic throughout the day.

Exercise regularly
Make exercising a fun activity, not a chore. Use the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or cycle instead of taking the cab or bus, and brisk walk for 20 minutes daily. Listen to music while you walk or ask a friend for company.

Reduce alcohol intake
While indulging in alcohol daily doesn't slow down your metabolism, studies show that having it everyday can result in weight gain because your body processes alcohol first, leaving the calories you ate from your meal until last. This means that those calories are most likely to be stored as body fat.

Don't go on fad diets
When you regularly keep going on different diets, you are depriving your body of essential nutrients. You might be unintentionally consuming fewer calories than are required to keep your body active — this results in lethargy. If you really must diet, make sure you consult an expert who will know what diet to put you on. And don't expect miracles overnight. Healthy diets take time to show results.

Take a break
Relaxing and taking breaks will make you feel rejuvenated both physically as well as mentally. Sleep for seven to eight hours every night and make it a point to relax during the day. Even unwinding for a few minutes daily makes a big difference.