Make choices that empower you and your health!
Phew! It seemed like we would never get here... But 2020 is finally leaving and will soon be over! It leaves behind a windstorm of emotions, losses, madness, fear, uncertainty and so much change. We have all tried different methods to stay afloat: prayers, vows to different saints, meditation, sacrifices, anything and everything! So long as it helps us, it’s valid.
We have learned the art of personal reinvention, to take the best and the worst, to prioritize and to choose carefully who we spend time with. We've even learned to let go of loved ones, homes, possessions, stability, plans and projects... But the biggest lesson we learned this year is that it all pales in comparison to our most fundamental need: breathing. Our health is the greatest treasure we have. Even if we take all the necessary precautions, and even with a vaccine, we still have no guarantee that we will make it out of this nightmare without physical or mental scars. Knowing how to make the right choices gives us the highest chance of surviving and improving our lives.
Consider this:
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Since the beginning of the pandemic, we learned that the detestable coronavirus (1) is ruthless with some while subtle with others. But one thing is for certain: those who have been, and will continue to be, at greatest risk are those who suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity (2), among other factors.
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While it is true that some conditions are genetically predisposed, we must also be honest with ourselves and recognize that a lot of it is directly related to our lifestyle (3) . If we are sedentary, opposed to regular exercise and indulging in excess and the good life, it will show in our health.
During the pandemic, many people chose to focus on what they could NOT do. On the restrictions, criticizing and lamenting that they couldn't take that fantastic vacation or have a lavish wedding with 500 guests... They preferred to sit around, binging television while eating pizza all day.
Others, however, chose to take advantage of the pause, silence and stillness to do what they never could before due to lack of time. They learned to cook, garden or even how to dye their hair like a professional stylist. They focused on improving their physical condition right where they were, with the space and conditions they had available, whether it was a big house or a tiny apartment. They prepped themselves to be in better condition for the time when they could return outside freely, to the new normal or whatever might come. At the end of the day, the outcome of our decisions today determines our tomorrow. We are free to take the plunge or climb higher to our own well-being.
Which are you?
It may be that you fall in that larger group where the pandemic has added pounds while reducing overall health. But you know what? That has happened to all of us in one way or another. The good news is that we are still in time to regain control. With a new year upon us, now is the perfect time to start.
Each new year brings with it a plethora of diet and exercise plans. This year, it is more important than ever to change your life using one of these. This time, though, let’s do something different.
Don’t just pick a diet to lose a few pounds and get on track, only to return to old habits after a couple of months and regain twice as much. It's about recovering your body and, maybe for the first time ever, taking control of your life. It's about YOUR HEALTH. Because if you have great health, you have it all.
Being physically healthy means:
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Lower risk of contracting diseases.
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Less risk of being infected by viruses such as COVID-19.
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Greater ability to recover, even when we get sick.
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Better regulation of hormonal and other changes due to aging.
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Decreased chances of mental deterioration.
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Increased chances of remaining active despite age.
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Higher possibility of having the right attitude and mood to overcome obstacles that may arise, since our mind and emotions are directly linked to health (and vice versa).
A healthy person is more likely to be prosperous and happy, have healthy relationships and a brighter future. It doesn't matter if your life has been a “little” messy or “a lot”, filled with overindulgences or illness, you are right on time to make a change!
What can you do to make these necessary health changes?
- Visualize what you want for 2021 and what the future holds for you:
Is it a life full of aches and pains? Or a long and happy one?
Use honest discernment to review everything you know is the cornerstone keeping you from improving quality of life: food, lack of exercise, alcohol, smoking, etc. Are those things worth it? Is the momentary pleasure they provide worth it?
Every decision you make from now on should take you a step closer to your best health, based on two fundamental pillars: nutrition and physical activity.
Once you take that leap to better health, which we are convinced you will, you become a new person inside and out with a steel willpower!
Your complete health, from the tip of your toes to the hair on your head, and above all your self-esteem, will speak wonders for you.
There are a few days left to say goodbye to 2020. Get ready for the best year of your life! The choice is yours.
We are here to support you. Stay tuned.
Let's be healthier, together!
Your friends at Santo Remedio
