The Four Roots of Optimum Wellness

root n. 1 Part of a plant that provides support, draws water and nourishment, and stores food.
2 Source of action. 3 An essential part.

 

There are four essential parts to being healthy that I call roots. If you make healthy choices in each root area, you will achieve optimum wellness—feeling supported, watered, nourished and full of energy.

Root One: Diet

It is not a coincidence that disease is on the increase at the same time our diets consist of more artificial and sugar-laden ingredients, plus meats and dairy laced with antibiotics and hormones. Cancer has now become the number one killer.

For a start, here’s a list of things to avoid in foods:

• Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats)
• High fructose corn syrup

  

• Artificial colors, preservatives, flavors and sweeteners
• Meats given antibiotics, growth hormones or animal by-products
• Bleached or bromated flour
• Irradiated or genetically modified food
• Sugar in food where it doesn’t belong (bread, crackers, etc)

The way to get healthy and stay healthy comes down to diet. There are plenty of things in the environment that are cancer-causing we can’t control, but diet is a big thing we can. People may say, “I can’t help it, I have bad genes. Uncle Harry, my sister and both my mom and dad had cancer.” Well… change what you eat and you can change your genetics. Yes you can! You can turn on the genes that protect you from cancer and shut down those that cause cancer.

Begin by eating more veggies. Keep it simple and take baby steps.

Root Two: Exercise

We all love to hate exercise. Well… not everyone. Some people just plain love it! I exercise (not really loving it) because it gives me more energy and makes me feel good. The benefits of exercise are numerous—here are just seven.

Exercise can be fun! Regular exercise at something we may not like can be a bonus when we do something requiring energy. For example, my husband and I went to Yosemite National Park for a day and took our bikes. While traffic in the valley was gridlock, we rode around on our bikes to see the spectacular waterfalls.

Because we’re fit, it was not a strenuous endeavor. We enjoyed the ride and never suffered any soreness. Well… maybe a little in the behind…TMI. Plus, we chalked up an extra day of exercise. Sure beats driving in circles and trying to view waterfalls through the sunroof.

Root Three: Sleep

Sleep is a very important part of a healthy life. In our fast-paced life, downing mochas and red bulls to stay alert is the norm. Energy drinks are used to prop us up instead of getting good sleep. Our bodies need sleep to regenerate—it’s a natural and essential part of being healthy.

Researchers say lack of sleep can double the risk of cardiovascular disease, but so can too much sleep. A significant shortage of sleep can cause mental, emotional and physical fatigue. It diminishes a person’s ability to perform high-level cognitive functions and leads to many deaths from accidents.

If getting to sleep is a problem than try these tips for preparing yourself for sleep.

Root Four: Attitude

Many people who have or had cancer can point to a stressful time previous to their cancer diagnosis. Yes, stress can lead to cancer and other unhealthy conditions. It’s all about how we react to the stress and, believe me, its not easy.

I am blessed that my hubby is my best friend and we talk often about what stresses us. It provides a healthy way to get it out and let it go. He also dispenses some sweet empathy, hugs and understanding—healthy perks to rev up your attitude. It’s important to talk out your stress with someone who will support you unconditionally—be it a spouse, friend or a therapist.

Besides processing or talking out your stuff with a trusted person here are six tips to keep your attitude healthy.

As you adjust your diet to healthier eating, you’ll find you have the energy to exercise, you sleep better and your attitude improves. Funny how that works!

Photo Credit: Chris Pedersen

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