What do YOU think of when someone asks you if you’re “healthy”?
I think many people would consider whether or not they have a cold, or the flu, or some other more serious health condition as the determinant to answer my question.
Just because you have perfect blood work and all the right boxes are checked during your annual physical, does that make you “healthy”? Isn’t there so much more??
In my humble opinion… hard yes. There is SO much more.
Consider the small things that you can do on a daily basis that can cultivate health far beyond the absence of illness.
For me, these are the things that contribute to health:
FITNESS
Today, as I write this, my gym, Athlete Inside Performance, is closed due to Covid restrictions. It has been closed since before Christmas. This is a colossal challenge for me given that I take so much more away from a great work out than just a good sweat.
I see friends there. I can encourage people and also be encouraged. I see people working hard. I love all the fun equipment I get to to “play” with. I love the challenge. I love lifting heavy things.
Fitness fills my cup.
So right now, even though I'm not at my gym, I continue to work out in my garage. I don't have the same set up. I don't have the same equipment. But I can still work hard. And I always feel energized afterwards.
FAMILY
Spending time with my husband and my kids makes me healthy. The connection and love I feel for them is immense. Family dinners include uplifting and heartwarming and, often, completely off-the-wall conversation that contributes to my health.
SOLO TIME
I am a people person. Unless, of course, I don't want to be. These are the times when I want to sit in the corner and read my book in my cozy chair. I don't want to talk to anyone. I don't want to think. Having my solo time rejuvenates me. It allows me to be peaceful and connected with myself. This makes me healthy.
FRIENDSHIP
The connection I have with my close friends is priceless. I have friends I work out with, friends who I call to laugh with, friends who have known me since I was five, and friends who live far but still feel close. Maintaining connection with them on a regular basis is paramount to my personal health and well-being. What takes you from “not sick” healthy to “thriving” healthy?