Health: Balancing To Keep Fit

Fitness and wellness are based on homeostasis, a condition of relative balance that allows your natural systems to maintain and restore health. When natural systems are pushed too far off balance, ill health results. Balanced daily living and habits may keep you fit and healthy to recover faster from illness and injury. In order to keep your body and mind fit and healthy, maintain balance in all aspects of life. Talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes or adopting a new exercise program.

A Balanced Schedule

A disciplined and balanced schedule is the foundation for a healthy, fit lifestyle. Go to bed before 10 p.m. and wake around sunrise for optimal alertness throughout the day. Eat meals at regular intervals with at least four hours between them to maintain digestive health. Early morning, when body and mind are rested, is the best time for exercise and personal quiet time or spiritual practice. Late morning and early afternoon are good for mentally-stimulating work, while early evening is optimal for social time.

Balanced Diet

Balance in eating is essential to good health. The food you eat provides building blocks for your body's cells, and to keep in good condition, your body needs a balanced supply of high-quality building materials. Eat a plant-based diet that emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Prepare simple meals at home rather than relying on processed pre-made foods. Cut back or eliminate red meat and junk foods with empty calories.

Balanced Exercise

A balanced exercise program will allow you to fit regular activity into your daily life to stay fit and healthy for the long-run. Plan an exercise program that includes a gentle warm up and stretching to maintain flexibility. Include aerobic exercise, such as running, biking or swimming, four or five times a week and strength training three times a week. Many exercise systems incorporate these elements. For example, Pilates and yoga both include stretching and strengthening.

Spiritual Balance

The ill effects of stress are well known. Heart disease, chronic indigestion, headaches and poor immune function may all be caused or exacerbated by stress. Stress also sometimes leads individuals to seek relief in unhealthy ways -- such as alcohol, smoking, drugs or emotional outbursts. Relieving stress through breathing exercises, meditation practice, attending church or praying may support good mental and emotional balance. Try a system such as yoga that combines spiritual practice with body awareness to improve health and well-being on all levels.