An impressive number of studies have shown that lifestyle is the root cause of what ails us, particularly when it comes to chronic conditions. The studies also show that changing one's lifestyle can dramatically improve health, both in preventing and reversing diseases. Lifestyle medicine or design is not a new concept. It has reemerged as a way to prevent illnesses and improve quality of life. One thing that COVID has shown us is that a person's health does matter.
Six areas of your life may need a deep cleaning as you prepare for a healthier life. These concepts are simple but not necessarily easy to implement; old patterns are hard to break.
These areas are nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, mind-body health, and healthy relationships.
Nutrition:
Research shows that eating a predominately whole-food, plant-based diet can improve health by eliminating processed food, sugars, and pro-inflammatory ingredients.
Fresh fruits
Fresh Vegetables
Whole-Grains
Organic, grass feed meats
Exercise:
An essential idea around exercise is finding something you enjoy and do it. Engage your mind, be purposeful, and be present in how you move your body.
Walking/Running/Cycling
Strength training
Stretching
Stress Management:
Intentionally plan time in your day to de-stress.
Pray
Meditate
Sit in silence
Journal/thought downloads
Go for a walk
Sleep:
Getting a good night's sleep dramatically affects mood, metabolism, appetite, and hormones.
Create a bedtime routine
Limit screen time 2 hours before bedtime
15 minutes of early morning sunlight
Consistent bedtime and waking
Mind-Body Health:
The latest research shows that our mind and body are very much connected. If the gut is dysregulated by foods or stress, this can lead to anxiety and depression. And if our mind circles in negative thoughts, our body will be affected.
Be curious
Track how you are feeling/thinking
Look for patterns
Healthy Relationships:
Unhealthy relationships may disrupt our eating patterns, sleep, and overall well-being.
Create healthy boundaries
Have fun
Surround yourself with people who lift you up
Be confident in who you are
Do you see the connection of how these areas affect each other?
Creating healthy habits, starting small, can prevent and even reverse obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic illnesses.
Each area will look different for each person. We are each unique, and what may work for one person may not work for another. Refrain from being persuaded and placed into a one-size-fits-all protocol that is not beneficial.
Together, we will identify what you need to feel better through coaching.
How can I support you in creating new habits that are sustainable and fit your lifestyle?
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