Balance is the most fundamental principal of wellness. When we lead a balanced life we have the least chance of disease, because our bodies are not being stressed by excesses. But what does it mean to live in balance?
The first definition of balance, according to Dictionary.com is:
The nature of balance is equality. The saying “all things in moderation” comes to mind. Think about the things you eat for a moment. Do you have certain foods that you eat more of than any other? Do you eat processed meals and fast food? Are you addicted to sugary snacks and drinks?
When we eat too many processed, deep fried and microwaved foods, we create a build up of toxins in our bodies. Our bodies become stressed out fighting for balance, and our immune system weakens. This creates a constant lack of energy that is often misdiagnosed as chronic fatigue or depression.
Start balancing yourself by reducing foods and drinks that do not enhance your health and give you true lasting energy. Then begin to add more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It is not necessary to completely omit foods that are less than wholesome, as long as there is a larger portion of the diet being made up of nutrient rich, high energy foods. Dark leafy greens in particular have an extraordinary ability to counteract the toxins that are so abundant in our Standard American Diet. Superfoods and foods high in antioxidants should be consumed daily to ensure that we are doing our part to stay balanced.
Nutrition is not the only area of our lives that we must achieve balance. The third and fourth definitions of the word balance from Dictionary.com are:
Balance is a state of wellness that encompasses all areas of our lives. Our minds must be focused to achieve our goals, and a strong, limber body is crucial to getting the job done. Our mind, body and spirit are all equally important to Whole Life Wellness. This means that in addition to proper nutrition and exercise, we must also keep our emotions and convictions in balance. Make a list of all the things that create true happiness for you, then make another list of things you don't enjoy. Take a good long look at these lists, and decide how you can create more joy and less suffering in your life. Make a plan, write it down, and stick with it. Setting and achieving goals is one way to ensure that you are increasing balance and living up to your full potential.
No matter how determined we are, it is probably impossible to achieve complete balance, at least for any length of time. Imagine an old fashioned scale of weights, with a pointed fulcrum between the two suspended trays. The point is so small, that even the slightest difference of weight causes the scale to tip. Then it seesaws back and forth, a slave to the laws of science, with only the resistance of the air to slow it down. No one can live in perfect balance all the time, but if we make smart choices and strive for balance, we can ensure that we are not swinging out of control.
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