What is Health Esteem?

Your health esteem is comprised of the thoughts, feelings and beliefs that you hold about your health, and your body’s ability to repair and rejuvenate as you age. Health esteem can be defined in these areas:

  1. Physical health — your physical body, which includes your medical testing and results.
  2. Mental and emotional health — your thoughts and feelings, and sense of well- being.
  3. Spiritual health — inner fulfillment and peacefulness, and an ability to transcend our daily routine and feel connected to and a part of something greater than ourselves.

5 Pillars of Our Health Esteem

 

Food

The quality and quantity of our meals have the potential to nourish us or harm us. Food is perhaps one of our greatest pleasures that can be a social force, uniting us in celebrations and traditions. In our modern-day world, overfed and undernourished can negatively impact our health.

Sleep

Our bodies cycle through four different stages of sleep several times overnight, and each cycle has a useful purpose and provides unique health benefits. Sleep is a form of psychic regeneration when our body and mind renew and cleanse themselves.

Movement

The world’s longest-lived people reside in environments that encourage instinctive movement. Regular daily movement and weekly exercises are integral to preventing premature aging. Movement stimulates lymphatic drainage, tones the muscles, eases stress, improves mood, promotes sleep, balances our biomarkers, and facilitates a focused mind. It also releases endorphins, nature’s natural ‘buzz.’

Purpose

The Okinawans call it “Ikigai,” and the Nicoyans call it “plan de vida.” Both phrases refer to “why I wake up in the morning.” Having a sense of purpose in your life can cultivate fulfillment and intrinsic motivation in what you do.

Connection

The world’s longest-lived people are surrounded by others who supported them and shaped healthy behaviours. Social connection is key to healthy aging! Strong relationships offer support and make you feel loved, esteemed, and cared for. Check out this Research study.

Doctor You

Health esteem can be grown, and flourish, with the right tools and support.