Here’s my list for the best doctors in my life. Yes, of course, I believe in medical doctors and, believe me, I have my share of visits, but these are the best “doctors” for everyday healthy living.
- Prayer-I believe in the power of prayer. I believe it is the greatest force on our planet. And I believe prayer changes things.
- Laughter-Even if you aren’t feeling well, laughter makes you feel better. There is something about it–it lightens the load and makes you hopeful.
- Sunshine-As little as 3-15 minutes of sunshine per day has shown to benefit us. Through increasing vitamin D, sunshine improves mood and sleep and overall wellbeing.
- Water-Drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest health habits to improve energy, flush out toxins, improve skin, aid digestion, promote weight loss, prevent headaches and more. The benefits of water are too many to list!
- Rest-Make sleep a priority, not a luxury.
- Fresh Air-Sometimes you just have to get out of the four walls that confine you and get into fresh air. Breathe deep and let nature soothe your soul.
- Exercise-The benefits of exercise are many: stress relief, improved mood, protective against depression, stronger muscles and bones, a more robust immune system, healthier weight and higher metabolism, keeps blood sugars in check and insulin working well, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, helps the body detox, and so on.
- Healthy Food-Eat more Whole Foods (as close to the natural form as possible, unprocessed, no boxed or packaged foods). Eat more vegetables, fruits (more veggies than fruits), lean protein, and healthy fats like fish, avocado, nuts and seeds, and coconut. Balancing your blood sugars can reduce anxiety and keep energy consistent throughout the day.
- Hugs-Hugs reduce depression, anxiety and overall help both the hugger and the hugged. Give hugs freely.
- Time at the beach-Some people believe that the beach can cure about anything. And I have to say that I can actually feel my blood pressure dropping the closer I get to Gulf Shores, Alabama or Destin, Florida. The beach just has a way of blocking everything else out. Maybe it is the vastness or maybe it is the soothing sounds of the waves. Either way–try to get there this summer.
- Company of loving family and friends-Nothing beats a loving family and loving friends. Nothing. Knowing you have people who support you, love you and who want the best for you makes you feel like you can conquer the world. I am grateful for my family and friends.
Sending you blessings of love and gratitude from Sterrett, Alabama!
Charity
Copyright © Charity M. Richey-Bentley 2018