Here are some thoughts about life:
• The air we breathe is the foundation of life. Diaphragmatic breathing, allowing our stomachs to expand and contract, delivers more oxygen. Shallow, faster breathing is less efficient.
• Our belief systems guide our decisions. They are the base for our hope, faith, trust and confidence. These are integral parts of personal improvement.
• Our relationships define our behavior. We are social creatures. Relating to others well can help increase longevity and add purpose, meaning and enjoyment to our lives.
• Relaxation on a regular basis helps us to control our stress levels, our thinking processes and energy levels.
• Our willingness to engage in life long learning increases our awareness of options, risks and alternatives. We are never too old to learn something new.
• Our bodies require strength, aerobic and flexibility exercises daily. A sedentary life style and obesity are toxic to our mind and body.
• Our attitude determines if we are an optimist or a pessimist. Optimists live longer, are happier and more fun to be around. If you happen to be a pessimist, with effort, you can change. The research on, “Learned Optimism,” by Dr. Martin Seligman can help you.
• Our daily activity level correlates with a healthy lifestyle. Keeping active improves mind and body function and often enhances longevity. Walk, bend, stoop, or climb whenever practical to do so.
• The diet we eat is the energy source for our mind and body. The quality and quantity of what we eat and drink directly affects the quality and likely the quantity of life we experience. Remember the simple rule. If we eat more calories than we burn, we gain weight. If we eat fewer calories than we burn, we lose weight. That is the basic truth behind all diet and exercise programs.
• Our determination level sets the limits on how hard we will try. How much effort we will exert? What will we settle for: success or failure? Self discipline and self control are critical parts in our lives. Self discipline is will power. Self control is won’t power. They are not the same and we can have one without the other.
Think about your life and how each of the elements I mentioned, affect you. We probably all have room for improvement in each of the areas. Consider making some progress in each area a goal for the next three months. I believe you will find it a worthy activity. And, I’ll also bet you’ll enjoy yourself more because of the improvements you make. Give it a try.
Tim O’Brien writes continuing-education courses and presents seminars on stress management.
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