When it comes right down to it, our most important commodity is our health. We can have all the money in the world, expensive homes, cars, and designer purses but if we don't have our health the rest suddenly doesn't matter.
Health is a continuum. We are healthy, we get sick, and hopefully we get better again. When we are sick, it is important to be under the medical care of a physician you have confidence in and to have someone at your side who you can trust to make decisions.
When we are healthy, there are things we can do to help us continue to stay in good health.
1. Eat Healthy
More and more research is showing that chronic diseases can be prevented by the foods we eat. So, choose wisely when it comes to your food. Eat fruits and vegetables and plenty of them. Your grains should be whole grained. Limit animal products that includes meats and dairy. Stay away from processed food. Limit your sugar intake. Stop drinking soda.
2. Exercise
Exercise every day. Get out and move. The time you spend exercising is cumulative so keep moving throughout the day. Not only will exercise help you maintain a proper weight, but it reduces your risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and depression.
3. Meditate
Take some time during the day to focus inward: be it meditation, journaling, or yoga. Give your mind a rest from the chronic chatter. Meditation can reduce anxiety and stress. It can also affect your physical health. Meditation has also been shown to reduce blood pressure.
4. Sleep
Sleep affects both our mental and physical well beings. On average we need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep is associated with obesity, heart disease, and infections.
Challenge yourself to improve in each of these four areas. Your mood might improve. You might feel better and have more energy. It is a gift you can give yourself. Health is our true wealth.
As always, if you are overwhelmed by your healthcare concerns or do not know where to start, please reach out to me. As a healthcare advocate, I can give you the advice you need to help you manage your health. #mhakimhcadvocate
