Ever heard the expression “you are what you eat?” That may not be technically true, but it embraces a focus on health that is right on target. There are many different ways to approach one’s health, and there are almost as many negative ways as there are beneficial ones.
Negative Health Consciousness
Merely being focused on your health is not necessarily embracing health consciousness, for there are many bad ways to approach your personal health.
Soy
Many people who claim to embrace health consciousness will adopt vegetarian or vegan diets. They’re mistaken in believing that replacing animal protein with soy protein is a healthy decision. Soy is a waste by product from the processing of soy beans. It has been linked to breast cancer. It is a false belief to think that replacing animal products with soy is engaging in positive health consciousness.
Fish Oil
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are crucial for a body to operate at optimal efficiency. Most people turn to fish oil to help supplement the body’s need for Omega 3’s-the best known of the EFAs. Fish oil is an animal product, and taking it doesn’t support the belief systems of vegetarians, vegans or raw foodists. Rather than fish oil, there are a couple of plant-based oils that offer all three EFAs: Black Currant oil and Hemp Seed oil. Taking plant-based EFAs are a positive healthy consciousness decision.
Not Exercising
The human body is designed to move. When it doesn’t, it slows down, body chemistry changes, and body function is thrown out of balance. Living a sedentary lifestyle is a negative health choice and demonstrates a lack of health consciousness. Instead, make time to practice yoga or pilates. Take a walk in your neighborhood, visit a local park or hike a trail to re-engage with nature. Breathe in the life around you, and you’ll not only feel better, but make one more step toward positive health consciousness.
Positive Health Consciousness
Good overall health consciousness is built off of several aspects, including diet, exercise, mental health, and spiritual health.
Diet / Exercise
Diet and exercise are very important for physical health. Most people have the knowledge about how to diet and exercise correctly – the issue is a matter of willpower.
A crunchy carrot or crisp apple is delicious, but sometimes it is difficult to remember the allure of healthy foods with faced with the aroma of salty French fries or freshly baked doughnuts.
Similarly, even though people buy gym memberships with the intention of using them, it can be hard to find the time and effort to fit gym visits into a weekly schedule.
Motivation is key. To help improve your willpower and drive to succeed, make weekly and long-term goals. Write them down and post them in places you will see, whether on your computer, desk, or car. Try to get your friends involved in exercising with you. Join dance classes together or rent workout videos and have a dance party. Take turns cooking meals that are balanced and nutritious. Check in with your friends and see if they are sticking to their workout and diet schedules.
And don’t forget-after setting goals for yourself, set rewards too! They don’t have to be big goals – every marathon must begin with a single step. Tell yourself that you will treat yourself to a relaxing, healing massage after you’ve been to the gym 10 times. Be proud of the accomplishments you’ve achieved, but keep on reaching for those stars!
And in conclusion, don’t forget that health consciousness is more than just physical fitness. Take good care of your mind, body, and spirit, and you will reap the consequences for a lifetime.
Thank you for reading!
