Creating a holistically healthy and balanced life may seem like a daunting task for many, but in truth it simply requires a little knowledge and the ability to implement that knowledge into your life. I tell all of my clients, “Small steps…great gains!” This is what I want you to remember every day.
Creating a holistically healthy and balanced life may seem like a daunting task for many, but in truth it simply requires a little knowledge and the ability to implement that knowledge into your life. I tell all of my clients, “Small steps…great gains!” This is what I want you to remember every day. Creating a holistically healthy life requires that you make a commitment to yourself to “be the change you want to see,” to paraphrase Gandhi.
Victoria Proctor
Make a step by step plan on how you want to approach your healthy life and then get all the pieces in place to start the process. Creating a holistically healthy life requires that you look at all aspects of yourself – mind, body and spirit – and determine what you need to bring balance to these areas. For example, a healthy mind requires mindfulness: constant awareness about where your mind is at every moment. Don’t have a lazy mind! An active mind and mindful actions will keep you healthy, wealthy and wise! A strong mind can be developed in so many ways. Prayer, meditation, yoga, reading and exercise are just a few. Choose one and commit to the practice! Creating a healthy body requires that you discover what you enjoy doing and you do it!
It’s just that simple. Get up, get out and get active. Not sure what to do? Simply drop me a quick email or schedule an appointment, and I will help get you focused toward your physical goal. Aerobic exercise is very important in creating a balanced life. As an exercise physiologist, I would say exercise is not only crucial for physical well-being, but also mental well-being … trust me! Exercise has always been my therapy. However, due to a recent injury, I have not been able to exercise the way my body and mind have been accustomed to for years. As a result of this, I personally feel out of balance. I cannot wait to train again and compete because in doing so, I feel so ALIVE. However, I must not only be mindful but also patient and start like you: slow, easy and steady! We really are in this together. Key word: FOCUS! I strongly believe a healthy body feeds a healthy mind and nurtures a healthy spirit.
Creating a healthy spirit may require a little extra work because YOU have to determine what feeds your spirit. For me, I chant, pray, read and workout to feed my spiritual self. I listen to spirit music (from Bach to Amy Winehouse) that moves and calms my soul. I like to dance, drum and be around other spiritually like-minded women. Give conscious thought to what feeds your soul/spirit and incorporate it into your life.
So take an honest look at your life and write down what you want to accomplish this year, and feel free to share your thoughts with me. If you have questions, please ask. I will start you off … ready, set, GET OUT! That’s right, get out of the house and move. Get your endorphins flowing! Go for a long walk, a slow jog, a fast walk or a fast run. Do whatever your body is capable of doing at the present moment, and simply add to it each week. If you are concerned about your physical state, get a physical exam from your health care provider so that you can begin your program feeling safe and confident. Again for specific help just send me an email. I will gladly help you get started.
Feed your mind, body and spirit!
Finally, to enhance creating a holistically healthy life, the most important factor of all is FOOD! Eat mindful foods that “feed” your mind, body and spirit! What foods would these be? Whole foods! Whole foods are foods from the earth that are consumed in their natural state whether that is fresh or frozen. Think of the rainbow and choose your foods accordingly. Eat fresh foods, organic and/or farm-grown foods when possible. Do your best to limit processed foods because they are very energy depleting, directly linked to our growing rate of obesity and may be linked to certain diseases that are on the rise.
As a health coach, I believe in helping people understand the power of food. Understanding macronutrients – carbohydrates, fats and proteins – versus having a diet to follow or calories to count gives you knowledge (and control). When we know better, we do better and make better choices. I will share more about foods and macronutrients through out the year. Awareness is the key. Each person is unique, and foods must be used to enhance, heal and feed that uniqueness.
So here’s to you! Here’s to creating the life you desire and deserve for yourself. Be inspired and encouraged this year. Know that Spirit of Women at Northwest Hospital is standing with you and ready to help you create a life of health and wellness. Be well!
