My MPH (Master’s in Public Health) often has me thinking about malaria, tuberculosis, leprosy, onchocerciasis, and other exotic diseases. But usually, since I’m currently living in the Midwestern USA, my thoughts on morbidity & mortality focus more on exercise, nutrition, and mental health. Here are the “secrets” that work for me to maintain good daily health (and no MPH is necessary to learn such common sense):
1. To wake up. Caffeine is helpful, but stretching is far superior! Try it! Buy a yoga mat one day, and on the next, roll out of bed and start stretching slowly. It works miracles for a sluggish mind and body!
2. To get a strong start. Drink water, eat fiber, and brush your teeth. Here is my recipe for Swiss Muesli:
- Plain, nonfat yogurt
- Flaxseed (ground or whole) – 1 Tbsp will do
- Old fashioned oats and barley (or millet)
- Apple, grated (believe me, a grated apple is the secret ingredient)
- Raisins, date pieces, strawberries, blueberries, chopped oranges, or other sweet morsel of fruit
- …sometimes I grate a bit of carrot into this.
3. To think clearly. Take time each day to read in a book, listen to classical music, or journal your thoughts. For some, blogging might be equivalent to journaling, but there is an ageless peace in the ritual of pen scratching paper that will never fade. Our minds need the structure and order of literature and good music, and our bodies will respond favorably too.
4. To be happy. Consciously choose a number of things that add happiness to your life. (The most successful strategy is to aim to bring joy to someone else, without expecting it in return.)
5. To be fit. Unless you are paralyzed, you ought to be at least walking regularly. Just do it. There isn’t anything else to say. If you can’t leave the house, do jumping jacks in the kitchen for 5 minutes each day.
6. To finish well. Forgive everyone who annoyed you during the day. (Forgive as Christ forgave you.) Eat a small meal. You’ll sleep better, and you’ll feel much fresher in the morning if you wake up hungry.
