The human body is a miraculous working machine. When we are
young, it seems to not matter what we do to the body, it just keeps on going strong.
But as we age, little things begin creeping in, aches and pains in the knee or
shoulder, a little stiffness in the back, perhaps a little extra weight around the
middle, maybe not enough to stop us from doing what we want, but just enough to slow
us down. So what can we do about these little annoyances? Perhaps we should
take a look at what lifestyle habits we have cultivated that may be contributing to
the discomfort.
There are three main causes of dis-ease in the body:
- A deficiency of something the body
needs.
- An excess of something the body doesn't
need.
- A lack of flow in the body
If we can address
these three issues, then we can keep the body strong and vibrant!
The first
of these three is the deficiency. Although in America we have ample access to high
quality food, we are a country in dire straights when it comes to our health. The
rates of obesity and disease are extraordinarily high and most of it stems from
being mal-nourished. Yes, that is correct, we are not eating highly nutritious foods
and thus our health is suffering. Instead we settle for cheap, processed, and
nutritionally deficient foods. So where can we get the most nutritious foods? A
varied diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, and a moderate amount of nuts and seeds
tend to result in the best of health and nutrition. The addition of whole grains and
beans can be beneficial for some. These foods supply the highest amounts of
vitamins, minerals, good carbohydrates, healthy fats, phytonutrients, fiber and
protein, while the simplicity of the foods are ideal for our digestion. The best
suggestion: When you go grocery shopping stick to the produce
section!
Secondly, it is just as important to eliminate or at least greatly
diminish the amount of processed, manufactured foods. These foods tend to be high in
calories, low in nutrients, contain unhealthy fats, and excess sodium, as well as
other ingredients that are detrimental to our overall health.
In addition,
it isn't enough to put healthy foods in and keep toxins out, we must increase our
activity level. Unless we move our body voluntarily, it will eventually refuse to
move at all! So even if you must begin with just walking to the mailbox, or
down the front walk and turning around, it is imperative that we begin moving.
Walking is the most efficient, least expensive, and easiest of any form of exercise.
The key is to find something you enjoy doing!
Finally, being sure to get
plenty of fresh air, sunshine, rest, and water will go a long way to keeping the
body healthy. If you take care of your body, it will take care of
you!
Remember: Life is a Gift. Health is a Choice. Choose
Wisely!
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