Thursday, November 15, 2007

The Quest for Excellent Health

Photo: Rose "Fourth of July"



We each have 100% responsibility for our own well being.

That being said - do we do what is really necessary to take care of ourselves to maximize our happiness and longevity?


Any illness that presents itself- physical or mental is a great time to reflect on how we are doing.


Before my diagnosis of breast cancer I was already vegetarian, ate organic foods, weighed 122lbs/8 stone 7lbs, exercised aerobically everyday, didn't drink, didn't smoke, and took my vitamins and supplements. I now have cut out sugar and most fats since this health challenge. (What, no chocolate?! Yes - even chocolate!)


In addition I now:

Meditate daily http://www.dharma.org/ (I have done for many years)

Do chanting twice a day http://www.abhayagiri.org/ (started in June of this year)


Jin Shin Jyutsu http://www.jsjinc.net/

Acupuncture (Dr. Noe)

Art Therapy (Wonderful local support group)
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Singing Therapy
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Aerobic exercise (running, etc.)

Yoga

Stretching

Core muscle exercises (midsection ones!)

Psychotherapy (various helpers including a great husband! And T.Y. Betsy!)

Coaching sessions http://www.breastcancercoach.com/ (tentative)
.
.
Metta practice (loving kindness - more on this later!)

Learning the ropes of higher Buddhist precepts (very cool!)


"Berry Green" (organic supplement)

"Juice Plus" (supplement from Elizabeth xxxooo)
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Radical diet change (no sugar, processed stuff, etc.)
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Ongoing research and reading!
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(Plus more to come!)
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The bottom line for a healthy living structure, is, at minimum based on: healthy eating habits - low fat, sugar and salt intake, high on wholesome grains, fruits and vegetables. Drinking plenty of pure water. No smoking or alcohol consumption, the recent studies are showing a very strong link between alcohol and cancer. Regular exercise.
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And a healthy, balanced mind! A positive attitude is a great support in all situations! Many people have a spiritual or heart practice/path that is a true foundation or bedrock for being, especially in times of "testing"!