by Ines Clark
Many of us start the New Year with reflections on the past and how to improve our lives in the year to follow. Although, resolutions often don't work, this time of quiet reflection gives us the opportunity to focus on the important things we want to achieve in our lives. For me, it is a little letter that will remind me throughout the year of what I want to put my focus and energy on. On top of this list is always HEALTH, followed by my intentions of how to remain fit. My first indicator of being healthy is feeling good - physically, emotionally and spiritually. So I put all the things on paper that make me feel GOOD. If you are stuck in a pattern or if you are looking for some inspirational thoughts on how to boost your wellbeing, here are a few good ideas on how to get started.
Physical Health: Staying active: Activities in nature are proven to increase our health. Hiking, biking, walking, gardening and other outdoor sports are great ways to bring your body in shape and are fun! Experiencing the change of seasons can bring great joy. Make time every day to get yourself out there and feel the earth under your feet!
Eating healthy: When I was in my 20's, I always was sick. I didn't exercise and had unhealthy eating patterns. One day I decided to stop eating meat just to see if it makes any difference. Additionally, I made wholesome food choices. My health increased within a few months. Well, after 15 years I still have a meatless diet and feel much better than 20 years ago. I remember the liberating freedom of feeling free of pain and discomfort.
Although a vegetarian diet is not everyone's calling, it definitely can boost your physical wellbeing along with other changes in diet such as decreasing sugar and salt intake, replacing empty carbohydrates with whole grain products, switching from fatty fast foods to fresh made meals along with plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as plenty of water.
Emotional Health Focus on positive thoughts, people, places and things. Spending our waking (and often sleeping) hours thinking of the burdens we carry in life will not allow us to feel good about ourselves. Try this experience: Notice how you feel when you think about a quarrel you had with your partner or friend. Now focus your thoughts on forgiveness and restoration of the relationship. Feel the difference?
Laugh plenty and don't take yourself so serious all the time. Go and play with children. They are amazingly in the present moment and can teach us immeasurable lessons. And they make us smile! Love yourself. Most of us are too hard on ourselves. Learn forgiveness and start with the person you are with all the time...you! Become clear about what you want from life and start focusing on these things. Most likely, doors will open with new opportunities you didn't even know existed.
Spiritual Health Quiet reflections or meditation can change our physical and mental health. If you set aside a time every day to be in solitude, to look inward and stop the busy mind you will find yourself experiencing life through different eyes. When I meditate regularly, I experience a higher level of clarity, concentration, patience and peace. It just feels good. My husband and son appreciate it also.:)
In that sense, may 2009 bring you Health, Peace, Happiness and Prosperity! Ines Clark
About the Author
Ines Clark is the owner of www.organcicmouse.com, a collection of online vendors that commit to natural, organic and healthy products as well as inspirational resources for a higher living. She has a degree in Physical Therapy, is a stay-at-home mom and has made meditation and healthy choices a point in her life. She can be reached at ines@organicmouse.com.
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