It’s amazing to me, how, for every opinion regarding health, there is an opposing opinion that seems to be in direct contrast to its opponent. Especially when it comes to diet. You have the high protein, high fat advocates opposing the low fat, high carb diehards. Eat dairy, don’t eat dairy, wine is good for you, wine is bad for you, vegetarians or vegans vs. carnivores, etc., etc. How is anyone to make sense of the differing voices promulgating their theories? Amid all the clamor for dietary and health devotees, there are a few constants in the middle. Taking charge of your health in the New Year doesn’t have to be hard.
Let’s begin with an area most agreed upon: The need for quality sleep. Too often in this busy, chaotic world, we stay up late trying to get things done, trying to get an edge on the mornings schedule, or for a parent with kids at home, time to be alone. But sleep deprivation takes its toll, making you less alert, more prone to errors and cognitively less on top of things. There are varying opinions on how much sleep we need, but I believe men need 7-8 hours’ sleep and women need 8-9 hours. Each and every night. If sleep is a problem for you, it’s time to get it fixed. There are different reasons for not sleeping and digging deep to get to the root cause is essential. We are here to help with that.
Getting exercise is also an area agreed upon. The level of exercise varies greatly from one theory to another, one study to another. What is universally agreed upon is that a sedentary lifestyle is not good for anyone, and movement is important on a very regular basis. Different exercise types give different results, so a variety of exercise forms is good to do, just do something. If you are not, start small. Tiny incremental steps help to develop lasting habits. Once the action is started the rest is easier. Take action.
Taking time out for yourself is imperative for good mental and emotional health. It isn’t selfish to do something for your wellbeing. Go out with your friends and laugh. Go to the spa and have a mental vacation. Have a massage to invigorate and relax mentally and physically. Soak in the tub. Relax with a hot cup of herbal stress-reduction tea. Giggle with your grandkids. For those adults who take life so seriously, go do something childish (but safe, responsible and legal).
Eating well. Most agree that this is essential, but of course the definition of “eating well” varies incredibly widely. I believe in wholesome foods, unprocessed as much as possible. A great variety, eaten slowly with purpose and enjoyed.
This year, take charge of your health. If you are suffering from health challenges, it’s time to get them resolved instead of just living with it. You are worth it!
©2020 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L.Ac., Ph.D.
