Being healthy is a state of physical, emotional and spiritual balance that maximizes flexibility, strength and adaptability. It is helpful to view oneself as a connected extension of the source of creation, however you perceive it. Embracing that concept, one can view total health as expanding circles of love and care starting with self, family, community and the world.
For optimal health, one needs to develop self-awareness, have clear health goals, a willingness to make necessary changes and an attitude of openness, acceptance and gratitude. In the previous installment, goal-setting baskets were introduced. It may be helpful to review these on a regular basis, building on successes and refining as needed.
Are you in the “driver's seat” or a passive passenger?
Do you have a clear destination and a roadmap?
Do you know where you are now?
For optimal health, one needs to develop self-awareness, have clear health goals, a willingness to make necessary changes and an attitude of openness, acceptance and gratitude. The previous installment focused on awareness, with the suggestion of frequent “stop, look and listen” breaks throughout your day.
Once you get in the habit of being self-aware, you may notice your bodily sensations, thought patterns and behaviour patterns more clearly. Shedding light and consciousness on these patterns is important for making any necessary changes needed for optimal health and stress management.
Read more: Installment Three: Stress, React or Respond, it’s your choice!
For optimal health, one needs to develop self-awareness, have clear health goals, a willingness to make necessary changes and an attitude of openness, acceptance and gratitude. In the previous installment, the importance of stress management was highlighted. Responding to challenges with equanimity and creative problem solving promotes mental, physical and spiritual health. The concept of mindfulness is an essential attitude to achieve these goals.
Mindfulness, an eastern philosophy for thousands of years, has become increasingly accepted and promoted in western society for the past few decades.