A Better You Blog

I have received and responded to numerous emails with questions about me personally, and I am delighted to answer a few here in this post. I want to thank Ed Mills of Evolving Times, who called me a wonderful writer of personal growth, and has asked me to continue this nourishing meme by answering these 5 questions. I appreciate his supportive comments and his contribution to articles on the Law of Attraction. His website hosts the Law of Attraction Carnival, so check it out. Here are the questions and my responses:

1.  What is the most nourishing thing you frequently do for yourself?

I grew up close enough to drive to the beach whenever I wanted to feel God’s strength, and get re-fueled for the day. Now that I live farther away, I try to glean a bit of the energy and enthusiasm this awesome force of nature creates every day. The most nourishing thing I do is this quick two-minute activity that refreshes me every time. I do this when stuck in traffic, when outside with my children, or whenever.

I feel the sunshine on my face, take a deep breath, say a quick prayer of thanks for my family and my life, and then consciously look around for something to enjoy. It may be noticing the vivid colors of a beautiful flower, it could be appreciating the amazing things around me (instrumental or vocal talent, the precision of a brick layer, or even the bravery of workers on a high rise), and it sometimes is the pattern or movement of clouds on a windy day. I also try to include my children in this exercise. Yesterday, for example, I mentioned the birds flying in unison, and my son (who is in kindergarten) was fascinated by their flight pattern that changed in an instant (but was still perfectly formed). After this quick moment of refreshing, I remember what really matters, and can easily shake off any worries or stress that tries to build up.

2.  For your health, what will you never compromise on?

My eating plan. It has provided over 14 years of freedom from my eating disorder, and gives me flexibility and a range of options. I eat a balance of different food groups over the course of each day, and I eat every 4-5 hours to keep a level blood sugar. I also omit refined sugars (yes, that means sugary desserts too). I am not a great cook or baker, but I can now make a great banana bread with natural fructose from apple juice that is absolutely delicious.

3.  Where do you get most of your health information?

Being an academic, I tend to prefer scholarly articles first. I must admit, however, when faced with a sudden problem with one of my children, I quickly google a solution. I pay careful attention to the source, since there are many websites that can appear authentic but are filled with nothing more than subjective opinion. WebMD has some great information, but I am also interested in herbal remedies. I always remind people, however, that just because it is called an “herb” does not mean it is safe. Herbs have a variety of medicinal properties and can interact or cause problems with other medications or conditions, so do your research. I also refer to my own medical books for some answers (I own a modest collection).

4.  What single whole food or supplement has turned your health around the most?

Water- a whole liquid rather than whole food. One change I made as part of my healthy eating plan is to drink lots of water. I notice an incredible difference in my energy levels, my resistance to illness, and my overall health when I keep my body cleansed regularly with water. I will add that the avoidance of refined sugars has made an amazing difference too.

5.  What is your favorite natural therapy?

A soothing massage. I have had several professional massages in my life. They were wonderful. After a while, my husband realized how relaxed I get (and how much money I spent), and said he could give me massages himself. I still get professional massages whenever I want, but I prefer the massages he gives. I love that he spends so much time with me making every muscle relax, and that we can share it together with such intimacy. I love giving him a soothing massage too. It is great for a marriage- I encourage everyone to try it!

I would love to see this meme continue from anyone who wants to contribute an answer.  Leave a trackback here so we know where to go, or post a comment with your responses.  I also am interested specifically in Christine Kane’s answers.  I would also like to add two more questions: 

6.  What gives you the greatest inspiration? 

For me, my faith in God, my family, and a positive outlook.  I will triumph over any adversity, I am determined.

7.  How are you trying to make a difference in the world?  Or, what would people say at your funeral?

I hope that when I leave this life people will say they were better off for having known me.  I hope that I will have used the inspiration I gain from life to help inspire others to great things, and that I will have lived authentically and taken advantage of every moment.

Now, it is your turn…