In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in the pursuit of success and material possessions.
However, true happiness and wellbeing are not found solely in external achievements but also in how we treat our bodies and minds.
The concept of “you are what you eat” has been around for centuries, but there’s more to it than just eating food.
In the pursuit of a “best self”, I suggest adopting a holistic approach that encompasses all aspects of life, including diet, hydration, breath, assimilation, and ultimately, elimination.
Diet
The foundation of a healthy lifestyle begins with the foods we consume.
A balanced diet consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, high quality proteins, and healthy fats.
These nutrient-dense foods provide our bodies with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and wellbeing.
Additionally, it is crucial to limit processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats as they can contribute to inflammation and chronic diseases.
Hydration
Water is the elixir of life, playing a vital role in maintaining our body’s functions.
Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, lubricates joints, and supports digestion and elimination processes.
Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces (up to 100oz) of water daily or more if you are physically active, consume many diuretics, or live in a hot climate. (e.g. If you weigh 140lbs, then you’d strive for 70oz of water at baseline).
Breath
Breathing is an essential aspect of life that often goes unnoticed.
Proper breathing techniques can help reduce stress, increase oxygen intake, and improve overall wellbeing.
Practicing deep breathing exercises such as diaphragmatic or belly breathing can enhance mental clarity, focus, and relaxation.
Not only that, but quality sources of air also play an important role in ensuring overall wellness.
It’s estimated that, globally, around 7 million deaths each year are linked to ambient air pollution.
And that’s the worst case scenario, but millions more people suffer from asthma, respiratory infections, heart disease, and a whole myriad of other illnesses that can be linked back to poor quality air.
And that’s just the thing, we’re learning more and more about the impacts of polluted air and its impact on our health.
Finding quality air may just save your life.
Assimilation
Assimilation refers to the process of absorbing nutrients from food and converting them into energy for our bodies.
A healthy digestive system is crucial in ensuring that we are effectively assimilating these nutrients.
Eating a diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics can support gut health and improve overall wellbeing.
It’s such a tragic waste when one goes to great lengths to source the best quality nutrient dense foods, yet misses out on absorbing them with a digestive tract that is out of whack.
Believe me, I’ve been there. It’s a costly and frustrating lesson.
Elimination
Elimination refers to the process of removing waste products from our bodies through bowel movements or sweating.
Regular elimination is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing toxic buildup in the body.
Adequate water intake, fiber consumption, and engaging in regular physical activity can help promote efficient elimination processes.
Exercise
Physical activity plays an integral role in overall health and wellbeing.
Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts mood through the release of endorphins.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days a week.
Sleep
Sleep is an oftentimes overlooked element that is essential for rejuvenating the body and mind after a long day.
Aim to get at least seven hours of quality sleep each night in a dark, quiet environment.
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help improve overall sleep quality and promote better health outcomes.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental wellbeing.
Incorporating stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help reduce anxiety levels and increase resilience to life’s challenges.
Slow Down
Digestion is most efficient in a parasympathetic state.
Grabbing a bite to eat while on the run is a great set up for indigestion, stomach ache, and bowel issues.
Slow down.
Chew your food.
Savor the flavors, textures, and sensations that come with taking time to enjoy your meal.
Stop and take deep breaths of clean air.
Sip water regularly throughout your day.
While you’re at it, smile and take in the beauty around you.
Remember, “you are what you eat” is just the beginning; it’s about nurturing your body and mind in every way possible to achieve true balance and happiness.
Did any one of these points speak to you? Leave a message in the comments below. It’s important that we support and help one another to become our best selves, and sometimes, just knowing that someone else is dealing with the same things helps us to move through obstacles.
Sometimes it can be hard to keep track of your eating habits throughout the day. That’s why we added it as a healthy habit to track in The Agile Life Plan 4-week kick-start free course. Try it out for yourself 🙂
