“So how do you do it?” he asked. “How do you keep so happy and healthy?”
These questions were queried by one of my patients who genuinely wanted “the magic pill” that I take to live such a well and full life. I started listing the things I know are a must for a healthy lifestyle because I’ve studied, researched and incorporated them over the years.
Once I had finished the list, he encouraged me to write them down for him. I took this a step further to share them on a broader scale in this health column. Please remember these actions have been utilized and incorporated to fit my body style, personality and level of commitment for over 39 years. It is a step-by-step process and takes awareness and work.
Physical
1. Keep your nervous system functioning properly with chiropractic adjustments. All else builds on a fully functioning nervous system. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT AFFECTS EVERYTHING ELSE LISTED.
2. Do some form of exercise at least 4 times a week for ½ hour. This works well as a combination of cardio, flexibility and stretching and weight bearing.
3. Eat a wide variety of natural organic fresh fruits, veggies, grains, nuts, and seeds at least 3 times each day using portions as a measurement–the size of your fist or palm of your hand.
4. Avoid tobacco, alcohol, coffee and artificially colored foods and preservatives.
5. If you can’t eat the right amount of natural foods enhance your diet with whole food concentrates in the form of capsules, powders or tablets.
6. Drink 1-2 ounces of clean, pure water per pound of body weight daily depending on your activity level and environmental temperature.
7. Stay away from drugs, pushed or prescribed, if at all possible. Natural herbal remedies, homeopathic supplements and tissue salts allow the body to heal the cause of a problem and not cover over the symptoms. Natural foods are the body’s medicine.
8. Have a massage at least once a month from a licensed massage therapist.
9. Sleep at least 8 hours a night in the proper position to allow natural alignment of the spinal bones and muscles.
10. Clean the body with natural soaps, shampoos and cleaners. Use natural essential oils for perfume and natural make-up and deodorant.
