You’d be surprised by just how much choice there is, these days, when it comes to Xmas hampers. It may have taken a while for some to warm to the idea of online food hampers, but now it’s bulging with offers, as more an more companies pile-in to shout about their high-end, luxury Christmas hampers. Corporate events, work Christmas office parties or even the 25th of December itself; there’s literally no occasion when one of these wouldn’t be suitable. Within a few mouse clicks, you’ll be exposed to the rich and luscious world of the hamper. Of course, they get no better when it comes to winter time.

So, what exactly should you expect to get in a Christmas hamper? They range massively, depending on the price range you’re looking at. If you’re willing to spend hundreds on a Xmas hamper stuffed to the brim with wine, festive treats and snacks, it’s out there. If you’re looking to do things on a much smaller scale or even offer one as a gift, many high street retailers offer similar online packages to keep everyone – even the people you never know what to get – happy, come winter time. You haven’t come to late too, get yourself a Christmas hamper for 2011.

• Believe it or not, but a positive mind is proven to help against depression. It might take some time to develop a positive attitude as it takes some work, but it is worth it. Whenever you are faced with a situation which makes you nervous and uncomfortable, take a step back and ask yourself; is it really as bad as it looks? Can I deal with this? What is the worst that can happen? Try to be realistic and you will soon realise you were overreacting. Remember, what doesn’t kill you does make you stronger.
• If you have started to withdraw yourself from social situations such as going to the cinema, meeting friends at the pub or having lunch with your colleagues, it’s time to wake up. Spend time with those you trust and people who make you laugh for good or bad reasons. You will be surprised to see how much this can help.
• When you are depressed it’s normal to wake up wondering why you should get out of bed, but don’t let this fool you. Get up and take a shower even if it seems terribly exhausting at the time. You might not want to spend much time with other people but it’s important that you leave the comfort of your house to get some air. Going for a short walk is an excellent way of making your day a tiny bit better, even if it’s just to get milk from the shop.
• Allow yourself to have a bad day every now and then because it’s completely normal and harmless. Instead of being upset about the mood you’re in embrace it and tell yourself that tomorrow is a new day and it will be much better. It might sound a bit too simple, but it lets people relax instead of being anxious about why they are sad.
• Boost your self- esteem. Many people beat themselves up for not being perfect, pretty enough, as muscular as the neighbour, or as smart as their friend, which can lead to depressive thoughts and a negative way of thinking. Look in the mirror and say out loud what you like about yourself. In the beginning it might seem silly and useless, but if you do this every day you will start believing what you say and you can see yourself for who you are, not who you want to be.

1. Apricots – are the best source for beta-carotene. This helps prevent free-radical damage and protects the eyes. The body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A, which will help diminish the risk of some cancers. Just one apricot a day provide the daily recommendation of Vitamin A.
2. Avocados – contain oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that helps to lower cholesterol. Not only that, it is a great source of fibre!
3. Raspberries – contains ellagic acid, a polyphenol antioxidant which helps prevent unwanted damage to cell membranes and other structures in the body by neutralising free radicals.
4. Apples – with the skin, provide pectin, fibre and flavonoid antioxidants.
5. Cantaloupe – provides Vitamin C and Beta-carotine, both powerful antioxidants and help protect cells from free radicals. Not only that, it contains potassium which helps reduce lower blood pressure.
6. Kiwifruit – more than twice the Vitamin C of an orange! Excellent source of magnesium, potassium and vitamins A and E. These help boost immune systema and reduce respiratory diseases.
7. Red Grapes – contain iron, potassium, fibre and large volumes of powerful antioxidants. This fruit is great at preventing heart diseases and cancer.
8. Figs – A great source of potassium and fibre, but also contain Vitamin B6 which is responsible for producing serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention.
9. Raisins – provide a fantastic source of iron, this helps the blood transport oxygen.
10. Lemons and Limes – 3 main products, Limonene, furocoumarins and Vitamin C all fo which help prevent cancer.

• The number one ‘rule’ to maintain a healthy life is to eat breakfast. Many chose to skip breakfast thinking it’s too early to eat and that it will make you gain weight. This, however, is wrong. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day as it gives you energy and starts your metabolism. If you’re not big on eating during the early hours try to drink a smoothie and eat some fruit. Crackerbreads (such as Ryvita) are fantastic as they don’t contain wheat.
• It is very important that you educate yourself on how to maintain a balanced diet. Eating too much or not enough will give you the reverse effect, therefore it is better if you get into the habit of eating five meals a day, just make sure they are not too big. What you don’t want is to eat so much you feel tired, but just enough to fill you up.
• It’s not uncommon that you feel the need to put something in your mouth, the problem is that most people go for an unhealthy option, such as crisps, chocolate, biscuits or sweets. If you aren’t a huge fan of fruit and vegetables you can try to make smoothies instead as they are filling and very refreshing. About a third of your daily intake should contain fruit or vegetables.
• Many find that cutting down on their intake of bread helps them feel less bloated. There is a huge range of muesli’s you can eat instead, but what seems to work for many is crackerbreads. You can get these in different flavours and sizes and they are a great substitute for bread and will keep you fuller for longer.
• It might be difficult to cut down on soft drinks and juice, but it is vital that you do this. Try to drink as much water as you can every day as it keeps you hydrated and awake as well as being good for your skin.
• With a hectic schedule you might find it hard to take the time to exercise enough during the week, but there are solutions. Get off the bus a few stops earlier than usual and walk the rest of the way, do simple exercises in front of the TV, or you can go for a run or a walk before or after working hours. Not only does exercise release endorphins and make you happy, it also gives you more energy.