Life In The Balance

Anything in extreme can cause you problems. While exercise is good, too much may do damage to your muscles or tendons. Vitamin supplements support good health, but mega doses could be toxic over long term use. You get the picture.

The key to getting the most out of life is following a regimen of moderation and balance. This applies to all your personal and professional experiences.

What does balance really mean and how can you apply it? Here are some suggestions:

1. Space your meals, for instance, so that you are not binging at any one meal. Do not go more than four hours without food or snacks. You don’t want to be “running on empty” because your blood sugar drops, making you feel run down and emotionally foggy. Eat balanced small meals 6x a day or 3 larger meals with sensible snacks in between. A diet rich in fresh, locally grown foods, rather than processed, packaged meals will keep you feeling energized and alert throughout the day. In fact, in areas noted for their longevity and good health, they enjoy eating lots of colorful fruits and vegetables and foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, like salmon, mackerel and sardines with a variety of herbs/spices for flavor.

2. Make sure you get enough sleep, which means somewhere between 7-8 hours/night. If you go to bed and have difficulty falling asleep, you may want to read, meditate or listen to mellow music to wind down. Sleep is not an option. It is a requirement and an essential element for your balanced, healthy life.

3. Don’t take on more than you can handle. Saying “yes” to everything can leave you overwhelmed and frustrated. Think about the time, effort, and aggravation you feel doing something with resentment. Would it be less stressful to just decline? Too many obligations make you forget how important it is to take care of yourself.

4. All work and no play is dangerous. You need to experience carefree, fun times for your emotional and physical health. Allow laughter, joy, playfulness, and even silliness to filter into your day, because that keeps you young in spirit, heart and mind.

The reason you should stay mindful of how your life is going is to celebrate what you’re doing right and continue doing it. When you know that you are really in balance and not misaligned, you can enjoy your life to the fullest, without guilt, regret or disappointment.