SCANDI HEALTH SECRETS

ICE BATHS AND SAUNAS

Believed to purge toxins, induce better sleep and boost heart health. Alternating a sauna with an ice bath or cold shower will increase circulation and may boost your immune system, says recent research.

PRIORITISING HOLIDAYS

Scandinavians enjoy one of the most generous holiday allowances of anywhere. Ample holidays are viewed as vital to the health of staff. Over a working lifetime, regular rest can help keep the brain and body younger and healthier for longer.

HILL HIKING

Invest in some Nordic (hiking) poles (from £15 in most sport shops) and push back on them as you walk to give you a springy, lengthened stride, which boosts your strength and stamina. Brisk walking for 40 minutes every other day after the age of 40 has been found to reduce dementia risk by a third, and keeps weight stable.

REGULAR MASSAGES

The famous Swedish massage relaxes muscles by rubbing them in the same direction as the flow of blood towards the heart. This increases the oxygen in your blood and releases toxins from muscles. A massage is also great for reducing stress, which has been linked to premature ageing of the brain.

MORNING COFFEE

It’s packed with antioxidants to help stamp out bad free radicals and slow ageing in body and brain.