I look at this image and see a good time. Not a health detriment as the Vogue article that used this photo suggests.
So, getting to a healthier lifestyle without becoming one of those strict moderates that I hate is going to take some creativity.
Let’s start with the article at hand. In it Vicki Woods determines 2009 for her to become a Totally Healthy Me (Her) you get the idea. Not at all focused on weight management, but more about finding how to truly be body-as-temple and not body-as-playground. She researches and finds the 12 tenants of a healthy life.
As follows:
1. Healthy diet = lots of fresh fruit and veggies, whole grains, tons of calorie counting and knowing the exact fat, carb and protein make-up of everything you eat. This is really where something that should be simple and enjoyable can become a nightmare. A hedonist does not want to think about percentages, EVER. (well, I do know a very mathy hedonist, I take it back)
2. Lots of aerobic activity everyday, plus stretching and weight lifting or toning. Arggghhhhhh.
3. Alcohol – no more than one drink a day for ladies and preferably not everyday, PLUS – this only includes wine or beer. Apparently, Gin has no health benefits????
4. Caffeine - none or under 500milligrams a day. This is easy. I gave it up (a cup of green tea at the most) a few years ago.
5. Nicotine - clearly it is not allowed anywhere anymore and is viewed as the worst of all vices.
6. Dental Hygiene – meaning I actually have to floss everyday. I have been Neti-potting everyday. I am going to add this to the list as I believe it has helped me avoid the last rounds of office colds and flu.
7. Sunscreen. Done. I am pale, I like it that way.
8. Sleep - 7 to 9 hours are needed. I am going to try to hit 8 hours. I love to sleep, so that isn’t the issue…but staying asleep and getting myself out of bed at the right time in the morning are a challenge.
9. Sex – this one aligns perfectly with a hedonist mindset; regular sex is a huge health boost. However, it is strongly suggested on for those in close relationships and clearly safe sex is a must. A hedonist will tend towards where it comes from is fine and however you get is great. Luckily, I have a partner that will hopefully comply with my healthy desires. I am hoping to up our statistic average for sex by 50%.
10. Mental Health – meaning memory, quick problem solving, etc. Puzzles, games are great for this health goal. I love games, but do not play them daily.
11. Social Activities – it seems that an active person with a busy social calendar will be healthier. My only issue with this is that it goes against number 3 and makes number 1 more difficult. My friends like to eat and drink.
12. Meditation - I am fine with this, even interested…except that as Vicki states in the article, how is anyone who also has a full time job going to find time to actually be healthy. This is full day all alone, which does not take into account my 12 meetings, 200 emails, 2 presentations and 24 decisions that need to be made every day.
Well, here we go. We are going to be tracking these in the next few months. I am sure there will be great failures. After all, I am not going to quit Moto-i, but I am also hopeful that there will be some major successes.