A SLIMMING World consultant from Wrexham has shared their top healthy lockdown tips.

Sue Vaughan, who currently hosts virtual groups every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning, has given her top five practical suggestions to help residents get through the lockdown, as well as ensuring that they stay healthy and fit.

She said: "Everyone’s circumstances will be different, yet there are some tips that will apply to most of us during these challenging times - especially when it comes to staying fit and healthy, which is more important than ever.

"My first tip is to fall back in love with food, as it’s so easy to get stuck in a bit of a rut when it comes to cooking.

"If you find yourself making the same handful of meals on repeat every week, take this time to try something new.

"It doesn’t have to be too complicated or time consuming, just something that makes you feel excited about cooking again."

Ms Vaughan stated that many people have found solace in baking and there is no need to miss out due to dieting restrictions.

She added: "Banana bread seems to be the hottest trend at the moment, so why not have a go at the Slimming World-friendly version which you can find on our blog.

"If you’ve got kids at home, they’re sure to enjoy helping out too."

She has also suggested that staying connected to family and friends is as vital as ever, especially for those who are self-isolating.

Ms Vaughan's third tip is to take back control.

She explained: "It might seem silly to suggest taking time out when many of us are spending more time at home than ever, but it’s still important to practice a little self-care.

"There’s a lot happening in the world that we can’t control and that could start to impact our motivation to stay in control of our eating and activity habits - but actually looking after ourselves is something we can control.

"So as well as staying on track with any healthy eating plans or keeping up with your regular activity, it’s important to schedule in some 'me' time too.

"Run a hot bubble bath, give yourself a pamper and pop on your favourite podcast."

The last two suggestions made by Ms Vaughan is to get active and to soothe your mind.

She said: "Your usual gym might be closed but there are still plenty of ways to get active in lockdown.

"Remember exercise isn’t just good for your body - it’s a great mood-booster too.

"There are loads of online classes you can try out and current guidelines also suggest we can get out limitlessly in our local area to be physically active - so fit in a daily walk if you can, or set yourself a challenge.

"Of course, activity doesn’t have to mean running or aerobics though - it can be something as simple as weeding in the garden (harder than you’d think) or getting some DIY and spring cleaning done.

"Anything that raises your heart rate counts.

"It's important to soothe your mind in these challenging times, as many people will be feeling more worried and anxious than usual - and these feelings could have an impact on us making healthy choices and see us turn to food for comfort.

"If current events on the news are a trigger for you - try to limit your exposure.

"Make your own playlists rather than listening to the radio, scroll through just one social media channel, and enjoy a Netflix fix rather than watch live TV.

"Let those around you know if it makes you feel uncomfortable to talk about current affairs too.

"Focusing on the present moment - mindfulness - to calm your mind in times of uncertainty can be really helpful.

"Colouring books, jigsaws and word puzzles are useful activities for this.

"Also, there are apps that guide you through techniques to help ease anxiety or panic.

"Follow your ordinary routine as much as possible, and keep a sense of normality, whether that’s packing up your lunch the night before, dressing in work clothes if you’re working from home, taking a nice hot shower or doing your hair and make-up."

For further information on the Slimming World virtual sessions, contact Sue Vaughan via sueswslimmerswrexham@gmail.com or via her 'Sue's Virtual SW Slimmers' Facebook page.