It's almost impossible to get through Christmas without over-indulging a few times - and why not? It's good to let your hair down every now and then as long as you don't make a habit of it. But if you want to start off the New Year as you mean to go on it might be good to remember the key areas of our health and lifestyle we should try and maintain on a regular basis to boost our wellbeing and put a spring in our step.

1. Quit smoking and drink in moderation. It will soon be nigh on impossible to smoke in public anyway so now is as good a time as any to give up. And try and stick to the recommended limits for drinking - 14 units for women a week - and help protect against heart disease and stroke.

2. Start to get fit. If you're a complete couch potato just try walking to the shops each day instead of taking the car or walking up a flight of stairs at work rather than waiting for that lift. And if you're already reasonably fit why not consider entering a charity race or walk. You'll make some new friends, get fit and help others while you're doing it.

3. Remember to take your vitamins but if you can try and get them naturally through a balanced diet. Five portions of fruit or veg a day should do the trick.

4. Pamper yourself. Try and treat yourself to a regular facial or massage once a month. There are lots of different types and techniques, but it's a sure fire way of helping you relax and let go.

5. Keep a check on yourself. Heart disease and stroke are the biggest killers of British men and women and raised cholesterol levels and high blood pressure can dramatically increase your risk of both diseases. Make sure you get checked, particularly if you are overweight.

6. Cut back on salt. The dangers of consuming too much salt include strokes and heart attacks. Try and cut back - within four to six weeks your palate will have adjusted and you won't notice the difference in taste in your food.

7. Shed excess pounds. Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk in certain cancers and it is generally not good for your wellbeing. You'll feel more agile which will encourage you to take more exercise.

8. Fight dental phobia. Remember to keep regular dental check-ups. Even if you think there's nothing wrong with your teeth you might be recommended to see a hygienist who can keep gum disease at bay.