In 2017 a documentary titled “What the Health” was released to the American public.
This documentary did an excellent job of exploiting government policies and uncovering the less attractive side of the American food supply. Carnivores all around the globe were made to feel very uncomfortable about their food choices. As much as fear tactics are entertaining to watch, teaching proper nutrition through fear and angst is never a sustainable solution.
As a Health Coach Practitioner, I’m certain that people who want to live happy and healthy lives (by the way, not everyone does) must first learn the definition of health for themselves.
So, what is health? While there are many theories on what makes a person healthy, health is as individual as a fingerprint. We have all heard the different labels: carnivore, vegetarian, vegan or pescatarian; but, what does it all mean and, moreover, do labels equate to good health? The truth is, I consult with as many vegans as carnivores regarding weight loss and other health-related issues.
I like to explore with my clients the 5F’s of Health – Food, Fitness, Finances, Faith & Friends. One of these consistently without the other creates a deficient in our personal health.
Below is a summary of the 5F’s of health. Some of the responses might surprise you. The bigger message is to explore
for yourself your strengths and weaknesses and most importantly what works for YOU!
Food- If one more person tells me they are healthy because they don’t eat beef or pork, I’ll scream. The absence of eating particular foods does not equal the presence of health. Regarding food, it is often what you do and NOT what you don’t do that can make the biggest impact.
Do this- Eat breakfast, lunch & dinner, and be sure to load half your plate with color and a variety of vegetables…and fruits, too!
Fitness- Runners want you to run. Bikers swear by biking. Yogi’s insist on practicing Yoga. In order to obtain optimal health by moving your body 3 to 5 times each week outside of everyday activities has proven effective for cardiovascular health, clarity, and a host of other benefits. In my health coaching practice, we explore a variety of exercises to meet clients individual needs and likes too.
Do this- Practice a variety of exercise techniques: cardio, weight lifting, Yoga, swimming, indoor and outdoor sports. Pay attention to how you feel before, during and after the exercise. Keep in mind a little discomfort is normal and as you become more consistent with your workouts, this should fade. Choose a technique based on the overall effects on your body and your feelings.
Finance- Money is a tool. Not having enough or spending too much can
contribute to stress and a plethora of other issues. Practice money moves and know where you stand. In other words, do you simply need to make more dough or is it a matter of scaling down on expenses? Could it be both?
Do this- Do the math. Have a serious conversation with yourself. Then take action by journaling your goals, spending habits, and earnings. Have fun and remember – it’s just money.
Faith- Regardless of your religion, practicing faith has great benefits for the mind, body, and soul. The word “faith” can be used interchangeably with the word “belief”. Ask yourself, what am I believing for? Get specific about what you desire in the short and long terms of your life. Then slowly start moving in the direction of your beliefs.
Do this- Using each of the 5F’s (food, fitness, finance, faith, friends), think about how you see yourself. Get a concrete idea of what you desire your self-image to be. If you are where you want to be in a category, keep moving forward. If not, pivot and adjust to get going in the direction you desire.
Friends- Check your circle. You are the equivalent of the 5 people you spend the most time with. Now, don’t run out and replace everyone in your circle but take a close look at what they bring to the relationship and how it makes you feel. Is it in alignment with your self-image goals?
Do this- Take inventory of the people you spend the most time with. Is there a balance between the relationships? Think about how the relationship serves you and whether you are your best self within the relationship. Also, think about your future goals and ambitions. Do your relationships support them? I believe that people are precious commodities and all types of people are necessary and interesting. So, if you’re a bit out of balance in the friend category make adjustments and pivot. Remember to always be the type of friend you’d want to have.
BE YOURSELF – JUST BETTER
Coach KENYA is a certified Holistic Health Coach Practitioner in Chicago with remote programs nationwide. For more information about Healthy Eating, Weight Loss or Reversing Chronic Illness (diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, digestive health, Itis’) contact Coach KENYA at 210.269.4156 or visit the web WWW.MYBODYDIVINE.COM
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