The demands of daily life often interferes with good self care. Nevertheless, we need proper attention to our body, mind and soul if we want to be healthy. Give yourself a quick Lifestyle Check-Up… see what you can feel good about, and what needs a little attention. Consider where you may be blocked in trying to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Click the button below to take The Lifestyle Check-Up. After you complete The Lifestyle Check-Up, I will email you back a copy.
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Want to start making changes right away? Here are some suggestions:
Dr. DiPaolo’s Top 10 Lifestyle Recommendations:
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- Breathe. You take about 20,000 breaths per day, most of them out of your awareness. There are many physical and mental health benefits from focusing on the breath. I recommend a breathwork class, offered free on Zoom twice per week (Sunday, 11:00 am; Monday, 9:00 pm) by Wif Hof instructor, Chuck McGee III. Click here for the link
- Healthy Diet. Generally, most people tend to eat too many fats, oils, sugar, caffeine and need to eat more fruits and vegetables and drink more water.
- Sleep Well. Sleep is like a linchpin for your health. When it’s off, everything is off. Good sleep provides the foundation for a good day. For more on good sleep hygiene, click here for “A Game Plan for Sound Sleep.”
- Exercise. One of my first recommendations for anyone, exercise is also a first-line treatment for dealing with depression or anxiety. Studies show that 30 minutes of exercise 3 times a week will produce similar changes on brain chemistry as antidepressant medication. If you haven’t been exercising, start slow, e.g., taking walks.
- Mindfulness. Engaging in activity to help ground the body, e.g, meditation, muscle relaxation, yoga, contemplative prayer, helps calm the body and focus the mind. Find the practice that is right for you. YouTube is a great source for many guided mindfulness exercises.
- Social Connection. The biggest predictor of your overall health is the quality of your closest relationships. Connect with family and friends for support and fun.
- Expression. “Expression is the opposite of depression.” Issues kept within will fester and increase symptoms of anxiety and depression. Find ways to express emotional issues – talking, journaling, art, spiritual activities.
- Gratitude. Gratitude is an act of grace. It creates a sense of perspective, allowing us to see the bigger picture and opening up possibilities of receiving in ourselves. Build an attitude of gratitude by identifying three things that you are grateful for every day.
- Pray. Take time each day to nurture your soul. Connect with your God. Connect with the deeper meaning and purpose. Consider the question posed by poet Mary Oliver, “what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
- Balanced Lifestyle. With everything, moderation is key. Implementing any of the changes mentioned here requires you to balance them into your overall lifestyle. Make sure you have a healthy work-life balance.
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