What is health? The definition itself has evolved over the years, from early times it was described simply as the absence of disease. Currently today it is said to be "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being with the ability to lead a socially and economically productive life." Getting there may only be half the struggle; perhaps you have been there a few times yourself. However it is maintaining a healthy lifestyle that is the ongoing process involving many different components. Think of a wheel on your bicycle, it has several spokes that hold it together. Let each spoke represent your Social health, Physical health, Psychological health, Intellectual health, Environmental and Spiritual health. If a spoke becomes damaged the wheel starts to wobble and the tires become worn. Lets say you decide you are going to stop smoking, take up jogging and lose weight, this new program you have created starts to take away from your spiritual and social time. Although physical health is important finding the balance in your wheel is the key. Think S.M.A.R.T.E.R
- Simple: just adding that extra glass of water to your day is simple and achievable.
- Manageable: Walking your dog around the block. Your dog will love you for it.
- Attainable: Coach your child's baseball team, Family time and some exercise all in one afternoon.
- Realistic: Bringing a sandwich to work so that you are not tempted to eat the chocolate brownies your co-worker brought in.
- Time: Perhaps joining a walking group, we show up if friends are waiting on us.
- Evaluate: Life is ever changing, goals are written in pencil so they can change to.
- Reward: eat, drink or do your favorite thing, you've came along way this week and you deserve it!