A Healthy State Of Mind

What are the components of health? What does it mean to be healthy? The dictionary will define health as merely the absence of disease. I prefer to think of it as the culmination of physical, spiritual and emotional well being. In other words it means having our needs met by taking care of each other and ourselves as human beings.

Throughout the life cycle our physicality changes. We may be born with medical problems or we acquire them through the aging process. Either way, it is up to each and every one of us to be responsible for our health. If you know you may have a family history of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, autoimmune ailments, or other medical conditions, think positive and take charge! Seek regular medical care, exercise, and eat right. Think of it as a challenge, and go for it! This is no small task that requires a lifetime of self-maintenance. But the payoff is worth the efforts.

What makes you tick spiritually? What fire burns in your inner core? In our hurried lives, we especially need to take the time to cultivate the spirit that lives within. For some people this means daily prayer.For me, my passion is running. Other people swear by yoga. Watching the leaves turn in autumn. Listening to the wind. Find your passion, feed it, nurture it, watch it grow. You'll be amazed at the positive immune-enhancing effects that sheer pleasure can provide. I know some of the greatest pain sufferers that have been able to carry on with life because they have continued to participate in artistic activities with a positive attitude, despite their shortcomings. When you feel passionate about an activity in your life, it will give you power and strength during times of despair that you never imagined possible.

What about your emotional well being? Do you have close relationships with others? How well do you know yourself? Do you still have some anger at a loved one that you could let go of and replace with forgiveness? Every single interaction we have throughout the day and each of our lives can be enhanced and enjoyed when we have a positive state of mind. What most people don't realize or take advantage of is the fact that every single one of us contains the power and the responsibility to make ourselves happy. Taking responsibility for your problems and turning them into positive attributes can literally change your life and open up doors you never knew imaginable. It's really all about your attitude- let it help you climb your highest mountain.

By taking care of your needs, you can enable (and hopefully inspire) others to take care of themselves. It is up to you to accomplish these goals, however. Taking the small steps will eventually lead to bigger changes and ultimately a greater sense of control over your own health and state of mind.