Ringing in the New Year for many means setting goals we would like to accomplish in the year ahead. With many people setting goals in health and wellness, it is appropriate that January is National Staying Healthy Month. During this month, we want to draw awareness to different ways that we can all take steps towards staying healthy.
Many people feel that staying healthy pertains only to physical health; however, staying fit encompasses overall health that includes the body, mind, and spirit. It is through a balance of all of these components that we can attain optimal well-being. Better overall health can also lead to living a longer, fuller life and help keep chronic diseases better managed.
Let’s talk about some ways to stay in good shape throughout January and the entire year.
Physical Health – Begin by looking at your physical health over the past few months. Has anything changed recently with your health? Do you have any new symptoms or areas of concern with your health? If the answer is yes to any of these, consider calling your healthcare provider and scheduling an appointment to discuss your concerns. Remember, your provider will not know you are having a problem unless you tell them.
Mental Health – We are hearing more and more about the importance of mental health. Historically, speaking out about how you are feeling emotionally was not common practice. We are learning however that keeping emotions and feelings inside can possibly affect our overall health. Stress and emotions can affect our health and well-being the same way a poor diet or lack of exercise can. This month, consider your mental health when you are evaluating how you feel. Aim to make a few minutes each day for a mental health break and do something you enjoy or that relaxes you.
Spiritual Health – Spiritual health is so often overlooked; it relates to an individual’s ability to seek, experience, and convey purpose and meaning in his or her own life. Spiritual health can best be accomplished through practices such as journaling, praying, or meditating. Anything that causes a person to pause, seek meaning, and reflect quietly is known as a spiritual practice. The goal of spiritual practice is to help a person find fulfillment and peace in life. When a person finds fulfillment and peace, it often gives them a sense of gratitude and satisfaction, leading them to an overall improvement and nourishment of their spiritual health.
We hope you have found this article helpful and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions. Until next time, stay safe and well.
