Living a healthy life

Writer Clara M. Codd made a striking statement in her article,  The Mystery of Life And How Theosophy Unveils It  published  in the Theosophical Digest No. 94  when she said, “…If  we obey the physical laws of health, we reap vitality and health; if we disobey them, disease and death shall we reap.”

Codd’s message clearly points out that it is of  paramount importance that each one of us should observe the proper and healthy ways of living if we want to be happy and enjoy life. I believe that our state of happiness depends on our health, and even our mood in dealing life day-to-day.

I was impressed by the answer of the Binibining Pilipinas candidate when she was asked by one of the judges what one habit she would like to change. She answered candidly that it is  her strong liking to junk foods, and that she should stop this bad habit because it is not good for her health.

Indeed, health is wealth. No matter how affluent we are materially,  we’ll never be happy if  we are sick or have an illness.  Some of us may not  know  how to  become healthy. Here’s a thought from  writer Paige Waehner, “In general a healthy person doesn’t smoke, has a healthy weight, eats healthy, and exercises. The trick to healthy living is making small changes, taking steps in adding fruit to your diet, having extra glass of water are some  the little steps that one can do to be healthy.”

Waehner also observes that  lack of activity is  one of the biggest problems in America today. She said, “We know that exercise is good for us but we thought that vigorous exercise is necessary. This is not so. The truth is, movement is movement and the more you do it, the healthier you’ll be. Even moderate activities like chores, gardening and walking can make a difference.

To prove how little movement can make a difference in our life, Waehner cites the following benefits:

“Improve joint stability; help maintain flexibility on your age; increase and improve range of movement; prevent osteoporosis and fracture; improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression; improve memory in elderly people and reduce stress.

If we feel that going to the gym would be  a tall order to us, Waehner suggests the following activities:

Turn off the TV. Once a week turn off the TV and do something physically with your family. Play games, take a walk, almost anything will be more active than sitting on the couch.

Do some chores, like  sweeping the floor cleaning the house may not be a vigorous exercise but this can keep you moving while getting your house in order.

Pace while you talk when you’re on the phone. Once around or even do some cleaning while gabbing. This is a great way to stay moving while doing something you enjoy.

Eat well. Having a healthy diet is  another part of the healthy lifestyle. Add fruits and vegetables in your diet and less rice.

As a final shot here’s a food-for-thought from Voltaire, “God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.”

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