Wheel of Life - Health Tips

I think we all know that health covers a wide range of topics.  I know that I do well with healthy eating and getting enough sleep, but I really need help getting moving (I can't even call it exercise) and not stressing about silly things.  I know that most women have a lot on their plate and taking care of themselves often is one of the first things to fall by the wayside.

We have to stop doing this.  Our health is truly of the utmost importance.  Some things are well-known and basic and we just have to make the time to do them, like an annual physical with pap test, monthly breast self-examinations, drinking lots of water, reducing high fat and junk food, getting out and moving every day, wearing sunscreen.

Most of the suggestions above are common knowledge, but what I wanted to share here was some health tips that you might not have thought about.

Love yourself, wherever you happen to be right now.  Be compassionate and loving and caring.  Love your body, your mind, your spirit.  You can want to change, that's okay, but until you get where you want to go, accept who you are and where you are in your journey.   I think this might be the most important health  tip there is.

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Focus on health, not being skinny.  Most of us (especially if we're over 30 now) aren't going to be skinny again.  I'm sorry, but it's true.  That shouldn't be our goal anyway.  Our goal should be to develop a strong and healthy body.  Try focusing on all of those cool things your body can do for you, like pick up your child, bring in the groceries, walk the zoo for an entire day instead of how your 14-year-old neighbour is thinner than you.

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Try chia seeds.  (Yes, the ch-ch-ch-chia ones).  They are high in omega 3 fatty acids, protein, calcium, phosphorous and magnesium.  I add mine to banana bread, oatmeal, cereal, and smoothies, and I just buy them at the Bulk Barn.  Not so daring?  Opt for a small handful of walnuts - they have all of the same good nutrients.

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Cut the negativity.  You are a beautiful person, so stop with the self-criticism.  Instead, work on self-affirmations.  Maybe when you're getting ready in the morning or in the car.  Here's one to get you started:  I am my own unique self- special, creative and wonderful.

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Have sex.  Surprised you with that one, didn't I.  I know, it's so easy to be too tired or too busy or too gassy (hey, come on, it happens).  Whatever your reasons for not feeling up to having sex, here are a few reasons why you should do it anyway:  boosts immunity, relieves stress, burns calories, improves intimacy, and helps you sleep better.  Pretty awesome and much more fun than exercise.

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Close the toilet seat before you flush.  Yes, that probably does mean cleaning the toilet lid more often, but better than toilet water on your toothbrush.  Right?  In a similar vein, consider getting a top or guard for your toothbrush.  I know a gal who came into the bathroom just in time to catch her cat licking her toothbrush.  Yikes.

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Stand or sit up straight.  Poor posture can cause muscle strain, headaches, energy loss, and make you look fatter.  So sit or stand up tall, chin tucked in, shoulders back, pelvis slightly tilted.  You'll look and feel so much better.

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Get up.  If you're stuck at a computer or desk all day, plan to get up and stretch once every hour.  Here and here are a couple of my favourite wrist stretches.  Eagle arms are perfect to stretch your upper back, relieving some of the tension from stooping over the computer.

Eagle Arms

What are some of your favourite health tips?  Do you feel strong at eating well? Or exercise? Stress relief?  I'd love it if you'd share.