Physical Wellness
Start with cleansing...
You really need to be free of any mood altering chemicals. That is right, all of them! Now...I don't mean the ones your doctor has prescribed for you. As you know, being an informed patient and speaking with your doctor directly is always the thing to do.
Also, while you are there, ask your doc about a colon cleanse. I know...yuck! However, this will provide a clean start.
I still read about or see on TV that some well know person goes into rehab and I hear the same thing today as I did twenty years ago...
"They could stop using if they wanted to." "Why don't they just say no." "All it takes is willpower."
It's a shame that most people don't realize that addiction is such a widespread disease. The biggest symptom is denial:
"I still have a job and there is food on the table."
"I don't look like one of those addicts."
"I deserve to relax and do whatever I want to when I want to."
You may want to check this out for yourself. There are several websites to go to for information. There is new research on this disease all the time. If you need help...GO! Maybe check out some free meetings like AA, NA, OA or GA. Or whatever "anonymous" group you may want! Do whatever it takes to set yourself free from addiction. Freedom is available. Choose it.
YOUR BODY IMAGE
How you look at yourself is a part of defining your physical wellness. When is the last time you looked at yourself...naked...in the mirrors? Come on...do it. What you see may not be the real picture. Try getting some help with this. You may find out that just a few pounds will make a difference. First of all, accept what you see and move on.
Ask For Help
Always consult your physician prior to any exercise or food plan. You may want to check this out before deciding what to eat and what not to eat. Ask your family and friends for their support.
What about what your body feels? There are all kinds of products for men and women to help us feel, smell and look good. You may want to try making your own. This may take some effort, however, it could be fun!
Decide On A Plan
If you have a job, a partner, children, extended family members, friends, a hobby, pets or by yourself, probably going to the gym seven times a week for two hours a day is NOT how to begin. You may be one that can put a CD in at home and practice.
ONE DAY AT A TIME!
Although a plan is essential, let's not set ourselves up for failure. The newest machine advertised looks so easy. And if you have the room, the time and the money, go for it! Just remember that sometimes those "3 easy payment" machines end up to be the latest clothes hanger over in the corner. Although mine did, yours may not.
Here Are A Few Simple Exercises:
If you sit at a desk most of the day, try butt crunches! Yes, butt crunches. (nobody will know!) Also, put one of those bicycle pedals under your desk. This can also help with circulation.
While sitting in your chair, turn your head to one side and then slowly to the other side. Feel the pulling in your neck muscles? Now try flexing your foot to stretch the calf muscles. Feel it? As always, check with your doctor prior to any exercise.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Have you ever tried YOGA? Viyasa Flow Yoga is a form that integrates rhythmic breathing with conscious movement. This practice can become a form of meditation in action. No heavy jumping all around. Just comfortable movements.
How about Tae Kwon Do? A friend of mine went with his two young daughters. This allowed him to spend time with his children and also get into shape. Guess what happened? The youngest, nine years old at the time, not only got her black belt, but also began teaching. She was showing Dad how to make some moves!
Tai Chi anyone? This a routine of slow movements. From what I understand T'ai Chi does teach the basic applications of self defense.
How About A Massage? Massage can relax and stimulate your body and your mind. I try to schedule a massage for myself at least once a month. I get "deep body work". This is not just a "foo foo" massage. It gets way down. Not only does this allow time for me, it gives me an all over feeling of well-being which is essential for my own peace and serenity.
PRIORITIZE!!! It is important for me to take care of myself first. If I don't, I will not be available to my family or friends. First things first and remember:
KEEP IT SIMPLE!