What does healthy living look like to you?
Becky Andrews
Whether you subscribe to the practices of Western or Eastern medicine, to experience healing creates an awareness and appreciation once absent. Summer seems to be the optimal time to heal; physically or emotionally. When you choose to live a healthier life, you are healing. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t always look the same for everyone. Some farm honeybees, create environmentally safe soaps or preserve the timeless sound of vintage guitars as a way of sustaining the world for the next generation.
At one point or another, we all need healing. The word healing comes from the Anglo-Saxon word haelen, which means to make whole, creating the harmony of mind, body, and spirit. One common effect of healing is a reduction in stress and anxiety, which in turn positively impacts our bodies in many ways.
Speaking of stress… three years ago my dad started requiring more care. My siblings and I adjusted to a new normal. We soldiered on, often ending conversations discussing dad’s latest health report with, “Love you. Remember, it could be worse.” (((I think it’s called survival mode.)))
One day a few months ago, I’d had it. Not with dad, with myself. I can’t control his illness or how well my son does on his college entrance exam or the weather. I can, however, change my reaction to stress- inducing situations. For too long I relied on the power of Ben and Jerry’s Chunky Monkey to find my Zen. So I started researching the practice of transcendental meditation. A few months after that first inquiry into TM, I’m making the effort to meditate daily.
Taking the time to meditate has also served as the catalyst for a few changes we’ve made as a family. With two active boys participating in a variety of sports, school and church activities, I see the importance of keeping them involved and the impact it has on them. However, hectic schedules mean very little uninterrupted family time. So in the spirit of getting healthy we’ve adopted another habit that’s made a huge impact. Family dinners at the table twice a week. Sounds simple and I’m sure some would say two nights isn’t a big deal. This is just a start. We may go up from there.
The articles in this issue are all written by people who have in some way engaged themselves in a cause—their cause to usher in a new way of living a healthier lifestyle. They freely share their viewpoint and passion. I encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s the food you and your family use to nourish your bodies or the political climate of your state and our nation or making time for daily prayer or meditation, there is room for each person to define their position, contribute to their cause and make a difference. And the end result is positive because it makes life better for all. Be Involved. You’ll be glad you did.
Until next time, keep reading!
