health and wellness
Did you know that a family history of conditions such as cancer or dementia doesn’t automatically dictate your health future? The concept that our genes determine our health is outdated, thanks to advancements in the field of epigenetics. This promising area of study demonstrates how our behaviors and environment can profoundly impact gene activity.
Healthy relationships with family, friends, parents, siblings, cousins, or co-workers play a vital role in our lives and are part of a healthy lifestyle. But not all relationships are healthy or good for us. An unhealthy relationship can add tension, lead to feeling distracted, and reduce our productivity at school or work.
Many people who work out have their favorite exercises; however, to be fully fit, both aerobic and anaerobic exercises should be combined in a workout regimen.
Exercise burns calories and builds muscle and bones. It is a necessity for good health at any stage in life, especially for senior citizens. Many health problems faced by older people might have been avoided if exercise had been part of a daily routine. Any movement burns calories. I could write a weight loss book in one sentence: “If you burn more calories than you take in, you will lose weight,” end of book. I coauthored Lose the Weight, and Keep the Faith, with Nick Gaglione, a fitness trainer. “Cut and burn” was the crux of our message. If you cut calories and burn calories through purposeful exercising you will lose weight. To lose a pound a week, you must burn 3500 calories more than you consume.
Our spiritual health directly influences our physical well-being. To take advantage of these influences, we need to challenge our minds, build connections with others, and stretch our bodies. These influences are particularly important as we age. Mind and body are interdependent, so these influences should not come as a surprise.