What does being healthy mean (to me)?
What does it mean to be healthy? We use the expression so often that we forget to ask ourselves
what it means. It’s not an easy question to answer! Does having a cold make me unhealthy, even if
my body recovers easily? What is it about me that, without any apparent physical symptoms, defines
me as “not at my best”? Here are some things to help me find MY definition of being healthy, happy
in my body, in my life and in my mind! More importantly, I can find out the best action to take to stay
in shape!
I can do the things I want to
Being healthy is dependent on what I want to do with my life! Am I fit enough to travel, to visit my
grandchildren, to go hiking in the mountains, to do my daily chores without getting exhausted, and
to do activities with those I love? With my body, lifestyle and constraints, do I have the physical
capacity to achieve my dreams? And for how long?
In many cases, I don’t need much to do what I want to do. I maintain my flexibility, agility and muscle
mass through physical activity. I set myself the goal of getting stronger so that I can do that long
walk and enjoy it. I’m starting to do cardio so that I don’t run out of breath when I get home from
the shops or when I climb the stairs. I’m almost there and with a well-defined objective, I can
improve my physical condition!
I enjoy eating
Appetite and good digestion are two important criteria for good health. In this respect, my body is
unique: magazines and other articles on the web give me ideas, but I don’t follow them to the letter.
I have my own tastes, I know how many calories I burn and how many I can consume each day
without restricting myself by balancing physical activity and diet. I am learning how to distribute my
meals to stay in shape. I know myself: I know that if I eat this or that food, I feel good (and that, for
others, this is not the case). I can indulge from time to time, as long as I eat a healthy and balanced
diet every day.
I sleep well
With a full day, but also time for myself and a peaceful environment away from stress, I can sleep
soundly. I know I’m healthy when I get a full night’s sleep and wake up in the morning feeling rested
and energised to start the day. If this is not the case, I eat lighter in the evening, I move dinner time
forward a little, I take a little digestive walk after eating, I opt for a meditation routine, massage or a
warm bath to relieve my stress… This is essential to my balanced lifestyle!
I am in a good mood, well supported and positive
Body and mind are inseparable, so for me, being healthy is also about mental and emotional well-
being. I can adjust my schedule to spend more time with my loved ones, join an activity that I enjoy,
or even think about taking little relaxation breaks at the office to stretch. Being in touch with nature
also affects my mood. For example, a walk outside, a Wednesday at the cinema from time to time,
laughter with my friends, bonding time with my family or breakfast in bed; I enjoy all these little
things that make me happy because I deserve it!
In short, my health is in my hands (at least in part), and its definition is unique, it includes all aspects
of life. Over the years, I will probably not have the same desires or the same needs. I can control 3
aspects – nutrition, sport and sleep – which I adjust to achieve balance as best I can! As for the rest,
I avoid stress and unrealistic expectations, I enjoy life as serenely as I can and I am surrounded by
those I love!
For more information and tips around staying healthy – Visit our other articles.
