As winter turns to spring, power up your body and mind with these mood-boosting tips from Slimming World, and you'll be ready to step into the season feeling better than ever.

1.           Prioritise you

While we can often feel under pressure to put everyone else first, they'll only get the best of us if we show ourselves a bit of TLC, too. Doing something that makes you smile – booking a manicure, watching a favourite comedy show, or anything on these pages – will give your spirits a lift. And when you feel good, not only do you have more energy to help others, but you'll also feel more inclined to stick to your weight loss goals, too.

2.           Step out

Research has shown time and time again that getting more active can improve your mood, and lighter evenings and (hopefully!) sunnier weather mean you can max the mental benefits by taking it outside. Walking in green spaces – which includes gardens and parks, as well as the countryside – doubles up the emotional boost. That's because studies also show being in nature can lift your mental health and wellbeing.

3.           Take a moment

Paying close attention to your senses as you eat or drink – being fully present in that moment – is also known as mindful eating. Like all mindfulness practices, it's calming and stress busting, and for slimmers it has further benefits, too. Slowing down at mealtimes can help you feel more in tune with your appetite signals.

4.           Feed your mood

What you eat across the day can really affect how you feel – we all know what it's like to get hangry (angry because we're hungry)! Slimming World members find that making the most of our Food Optimising plan by eating filling platefuls of tasty and nutritious food if they're hungry between meals, and enjoying a little of what they fancy with a snack is just the ticket to successful weight loss – and it's a lifestyle change that can make all the difference to your overall wellbeing.

5.           Feel connected

Spending time with people who share your goals can boost your wellbeing – and a Slimming World group is the perfect place to start. At your local group you'll find like-minded people who understand what you're going through, including target members who've overcome lots of everyday hurdles to reach their dream weight. Let them inspire you – and soon you'll be inspiring everyone else!

Smoky ratatouille pasta

Serves 4

Ready in 35 minutes

500g fresh or frozen mixed Mediterranean vegetables (no added oil)

2 tsp smoked paprika

500g passata with garlic

400g dried conchiglie pasta (or any shape)

A small pack fresh basil

First, get your oven warmed up to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6.

Put the vegetables in a deep non-stick roasting tin and spray with low-calorie cooking spray, then sprinkle over the paprika and season lightly. Roast for 25 minutes, then pour in the passata and return to the oven for another 5 minutes.

At the same time, cook the pasta according to the pack instructions and drain well.

Take the tin out of the oven and transfer half of the veg to a food processor. Add most of the basil to the food processor and blitz to make a smooth sauce.

Combine the pasta, veggies and sauce and check the seasoning. Divide between bowls and scatter over the rest of the basil leaves and serve with a salad.

Tip: If you can't find oil-free Mediterranean veg, you can use fresh or frozen peppers

Recipe taken from Slimming World's new Take 5 Free recipe book. Join your local Slimming World group or sign up online for even more recipes, guidance and support. To find your nearest group, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.

©Slimming World 2024

'Slimming World' is a registered trademark of Miles-Bramwell Executive Services, trading as Slimming World. Images: Slimming World/James Lee