For the vast majority of people reading this when we remember our youth we think of events and happenings not our health and how we felt. As we age gracefully, at some point, problems arise in our health. Our attention then turns to our body and our body’s function. Remember, whatever you give your attention to gets fed with that energy. As we redefine our existence with health issues, we lose focus on life and living. I know this is unavoidable and many times necessary to the healing process; it is merely an observation. But in my own life and the lives of my patients, I see the focus shift from future happenings to existing and waiting for something to break. Not until you can string together a couple days/weeks of good health does that outlook shift. But when it does, I see great improvements happen. So what is the key to being well?
First we need to define being well. Having good health to me, means my body is functioning as it should for the number of birthdays I have celebrated. This is a moving target, and your expectations need to change as you age. I celebrate when I wake up that I did not hurt myself in my sleep! So my expectations of good health have shifted. But having good health does not always translate into being well. Being well encompasses a spiritual balance and happiness as well. Physical health is a part of being well but, more importantly, is the way you think of your health.
I would assert that some of my Hospice patients are more well than some fit 30 year old’s. The 30-something is trying to climb the success ladder, likely has young kids and does not have more than a minute to themselves. Arguably they don’t need to spend time on their health, they can focus on things outside of themselves. The Hospice patient is dying, something has wrecked their body to the point that death is the only option. But in that there is a peace, a calm. No more trying to stay healthy, no more wondering how this is all going to end, just an embrace of a life well lived and enjoyment of the people around you.
In order to be well, start your day with gratitude. Thank the universe for your excellent health, even if it is a white lie. Be thankful for the most mundane of bodily functions. During the day, pause and give thanks for that moment. Smile. Hold the door open for someone, even if you use your walker to hold it open. The less you advertise your illness the less people will acknowledge your sickness. Then they will send you happy, loving energy, grateful you exist, rather than pity and sorrow.
Physical health is still a part of being well, but the recipe is simple. Eat mostly clean, single ingredient foods in an appropriate amount and exercise. Your body will take care of the rest. Healing what can be healed and becoming stronger and more fit.
Combing health with the right mindset can put you on a trajectory to Willing Service. The pinnacle of human existence. That point when you are well and then can help others
unconditionally. Help them be more positive, loving people through your own example. Help someone monetarily, physically. As the person you help evolves and heals so does the consciousness of humanity. At some point we reach a critical mass of love and our collective consciousness shifts closer to the Unconditional Love of Creator! WOW!
Remember, YOU are loved!
Dr. S
