Becoming Wholly Healthy – Caring for Mind, Body, Spirit

Your to-do list keeps growing and your turnaround times are shrinking. When you wake up in the morning (or as you lay awake in bed at night), your mind spins with all you have to do and how little time you have to do it. Head pounding, heart racing, quickened breathing. How will you ever get it all done? 

Does this scenario sound familiar? You’re not alone. In today’s world, we’re often too busy to take notice of the stress signals that are body is clearly sending us. But ignoring these signals can have detrimental consequences to our life and health. Our mental, physical and spiritual elements are closely connected and intertwined. When one aspect is out of balance, the whole body suffers. Here are some simple suggestions to for staying wholly healthy.

Mind

• Do a daily crossword puzzle or word scramble (not on your smart phone or tablet).
• Make time for play with your kids or grandchildren routinely.
• Read a book that interests and challenges you.
• Take 10 minutes each day to meditate or complete deep breathing exercises to center your thoughts and emotions.

Body

• Incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Work up to 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week.
• Stretch for 5 minutes before getting into or out of bed to maintain or improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
• Eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, veggies and whole grains. Reach for high-fat favorites with moderation.
• After a long day, soak in hot bath with Epsom salts and essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus.

Spirit

• Reach out to friends. Research shows that people with a strong social support live longer – and healthier – lives than their solitary neighbors. Make a phone call, write a quick note or invite someone for coffee.
• Belly-laugh often. Whether it’s your favorite tv show, your grandkid’s jokes or your favorite pet’s antics, laughter and lighthearted humor helps you cope with life’s challenges.
• Make time for yourself. Carving out quiet time shouldn’t be a luxury. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, pray, meditate, or read your Bible or other inspirational book to help feed your soul.