How do you kick off a big 25 day challenge like this? You start with what is really important. I can’t think of anything more important than our health. Without our health, the rest is really insignificant, right?
I’m not suggesting that you have to be the picture of health in order to be thankful. Let’s start with the obvious – if you are reading this, then you woke up today and felt good enough to look at your phone or laptop.
Let’s recognize that every day on this earth is a gift. We need to maintain a level of wellness in order for that to happen. I’ll say it again… There is nothing more important than your health. Before you can take care of others, you need to take care of yourself.
This past year has been a health journey for me. First the first time in my adult life, I’ve managed to lose almost 50 pounds and keep it off. I has not been easy. I’ve been living a Keto lifestyle and adding in moderate exercise (mostly walking). Compared to 1 year ago, I feel so much better. I sleep better, have fewer headaches, and have more energy. I still have more weight to lose, but I am so thankful that I feel good and am physically able to do what I want to do.
We live in Philadelphia part of the time and our apartment overlooks the roof of a Rehab hospital. Since April I’ve watched countless patients get physical therapy on the rooftop when the weather is nice. Many are in wheelchairs, some require walkers, and a few are completely bed-bound. This has forced me to think about my ability to walk and even run on my own. I am grateful for this reminder of how fortunate I am. Do you realize how fortunate you are?
As you think about your own health, be grateful for what you have today, but also give some thought to what you can do to improve your health so that you can live your best life, for as long as possible. Do you need to drop some weight? Start exercising more? Start making better food choices? Start drinking more water? Start practicing more self-care? Get an overdue health screening? Make a visit to your doctor? Get your flu shot?
What changes are you able and willing to make this week to improve your health? There are still 9 weeks left in 2020. We can all start 2021 on a positive note, maybe a little lighter, a little healthier, or a little happier but we need a plan.
I am so thankful for my current state of health – and I’m going to keep working on it. How about you?
With gratitude –
Denise