Four focus areas for health & well-being

In today's hectic and stressful society, many things require our time and attention. Unfortunately, it is usually at the expense of our health and well-being. Sure we all know we need to take care of ourselves but with the overload of information and products out there today, where does one begin? I have listed four areas that I feel are important to focus on.

1. Exercise
2. Nutrition
3. Sleep
4. Psychological well-being

Exercise is movement. Moving the body. It is meant to make us feel better, look better, be stronger and be more confident. The exercise should be an activity that is enjoyable and one that you will want to make part of your lifestyle. Be careful not to approach it with an "all-or-nothing" attitude. There will be good days and bad days. Just do something everyday.

Nutrition. What you put into your body is as important as the activity you put your body through. To put it simply, base your diet on fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, nuts & seeds, healthy oils and fats and very little sugar. Starvation and deprivation do not work so don't even try it, in other words stay away from diets. Keep it simple and natural.

Sleep is one of the most important things our body needs and the one thing that many people are deprived of. In this busy and stressed out world we live in, to get the proper amount of sleep is crucial. Lack of sleep contributes to weight gain, higher stress levels and an increased risk of some cancers and heart disease.

Psychological well-being. We all know we need to nurture and take care of the body, but what about our mind and soul, they need nurturing as well. Take some time every day for "you", whether its to meditate, listen to music, read, daydream, see a movie or play, etc. At the end of the day, stop. Take the time to relax and unwind. Being in a peaceful and quiet state of mind can make everything else in life just a little easier.

Try focusing on these areas to help yourself come back to a healthy and balanced life. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.