How do we determine how well we age?
As I have been focusing these past few weeks on caregiving and helping those who need us, I can’t help at times to think, why aren’t we able to focus at least a tiny bit of this caring spirit on ourselves?
Instead, we often fall into “stinking thinking”…coming up with a multitude of reasons why we aren’t in better health.It has always been a lifelong discipline for me, as it was in my medical practice, to identify the triggers and the toxic influences for understanding the evolution of health issues and diseases.
And so often, when I talk to people, those triggers are ones they know about (and the ones they do the most stinking thinking about, too)! Patients will come and say, “I can’t get more movement into my day, I constantly sit at my job…I know it isn’t healthy!” or, “I know I should drink more water, but I forget”, or, “I know stress is my biggest issue but it just is part of my work day and commute…and then I have the kids to deal with!”
So I encourage people – especially you caregivers with such unselfish hearts – to stop the stinking thinking, just a bit, and apply some of that care and focus on yourselves.
You need to ask yourself, what is ONE necessary NEXT RIGHT STEP, which will change your health trajectory from one of decline to one of ascension to your best self.
What is it for you? Is it about exercise, nutrition, mental attitude…..? Take a moment to listen to your inner voice. You do know what you should and should not be doing afterall.
Sit all day? Purchase a stand-up desk, or use a fitness tracker that reminds you to get up every 30 minutes and take a short walk or stretch. Not drinking enough water? Make that water more interesting…buy a special water bottle, add ice or something beneficial to your health (vitamin C powder, or Mighty Maca, perhaps). Simple steps to quiet that nagging inner voice.
Stressed from too many responsibilities and obligations? What would relax you and give your spirit a refresh. For me, an afternoon with family on horseback is a great prescription.
What is the one thing you know you are doing right now that you know you shouldn’t be doing?
Write it down.
Now, STOP that! (I hope it’s that easy) or START it if that is required (buy that new water bottle and drink!)
What is ONE NEXT RIGHT STEP you can start doing today?
Now, START that right now!
When you take the NEXT RIGHT STEP each day, you gain more power and momentum. You are “Aging Gracefully”.
So what has that little voice inside you been nagging you about beginning or changing? Start today.
I will help you be accountable. Respond to this email or via Facebook and tell me what your NEXT RIGHT STEP is and I will share mine with you too.
