Dr Michael Mosley says 'two minute' action will improve your life

TV doctor Michael Mosley has gained popularity in recent years due to his wellness tips and tricks, specialising in weight loss and longevity.

The health expert is also known for creating the popular 5:2 diet, as well as appearing on ITV's This Morning, and regularly shares advice on social media, as well as some newspapers and other publications.

Last year, he wrote in the SundayTimes that you don't need to overhaul your life to feel better and small changes can make a big difference to your life. He outlined a number of things that can help you have a better mood, improved sleep, a sharper brain and reduce the risk of disease.

READ MORE: Parkinson's symptom that can start years before hand tremors

READ MORE: DWP propose changes for people on PIP, Universal Credit, legacy benefits or long-term sick

And one of these takes just two minutes to do, as reported by Wales Online.

As most of us spend a lot of the day sitting, Dr Mosley says that studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, ageing generally and death from all causes. Our bodies are designed to be "hunter gatherers" and to move most of the day, he added.

According to research, when we sit for long periods, our bodies go into sleep mode and shut down many important functions that keep us healthy. Dr Mosley says for this reason, take the opportunity to stand whenever you can throughout your day.

Another action he recommends we do daily is to practise slow breathing. Dr Mosley says just by changing how quickly and deeply you breather you can slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, reduce stress levels and combat anxiety.

There is also some evidence that it can reduce levels of pain. The breathing techniques Dr Mosley recommends are: 4:6: breathe in for a count of four and out for six, 4:2:4: breath in for a count of four, hold for two, then out for four, 3:4:5: breath in for three, hold for four and out for five.

He also recommends eating oily fish twice a week, as it is a great source of both protein and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as having a nap after lunch. He said an early afternoon doze can boost heart health, according to a study.

Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here

Win £100 shopping voucher to celebrate the return of Aldi’s Next Big Thing