Your health: 10 things to do in October

6. Do push-ups
The old-fashioned push-up has a lot going for it: it's simple and effective, and you can do it anywhere, with no more equipment than a big enough patch of floor. To add some strength training to your daily routine, drop and do 10 a few times a day. Sure, you may need to work up to it -- you can start out on your knees and work your way up to 10 reps -- but it's a quick and easy way to strengthen your arms, chest and core muscles, and you'll burn extra calories as well.

7. Eat more berries
Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries or strawberries -- whatever your favourite, when they're this delicious and healthy, why wouldn't you eat them every day? Instead of paying through the nose for out-of-season fresh (and often tasteless) berries from as far afield as Chile, buy them frozen. You can either thaw them before eating (put them in the fridge before bed to add to your breakfast the next morning) or chow down on frozen berries for a tasty and low-cal dessert.

8. Challenge your mind
Research shows that a healthy brain is a stimulated brain, and that covers both mental and physical exercise. Keep your brain at peak health by making sure you challenge it regularly. Doing crosswords is a great way to keep thinking, but if crosswords aren't your thing, don't worry -- there are many other ways to keep your mind stimulated. Anything that makes you think is eligible, from the tough moves in your ballroom dancing class to political debates with friends.

9. Pick up some plants
Modern homes contain a number of chemical pollutants, many of which are a result of "off-gassing" from such common household components as carpets, upholstery and paint. A number of houseplants have been shown to significantly reduce the amount of these chemicals in the home: peace lilies, spider plants, Boston ferns and English ivy are among the most effective. Add some greenery to your decor and reap the benefits in cleaner, healthier air.

10. Catch up on your checkups
It's easy to fall behind on medical visits -- between the dentist, the doctor, the optometrist and any other specialists you may frequent, it often seems like waiting rooms are our second homes. But these checkups are essential for short- and long-term health and well-being, so make sure you're on track. If you're all caught up, then get ahead by making your next appointments ahead of time -- you'll be glad to get that task off your to-do list.

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