Regular and consistent physical activity that can be maintained on a daily basis throughout life – walking, gardening, push ups and lunges – is an essential piece of the optimal health equation.  Research shows that 150 minutes a week (30 x 5 days a week) is enough to reduce or eliminate your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The Stress response can lead to improved health and productivity – or it can lead to anxiety, depression, obesity, immune dysfunction and more.  Learning to recognize triggers to the autonomic nervous system (fight or flight) enables us to choose a different outcome.  Just like anything worth doing it does require attention and intention to become proficient.  Once these techniques have become a habit, positive stress management techniques leads to improved wellbeing.

The well-documented dangers of any addictive substance use can increase risk for many cancers and heart disease. Positive behaviors that improve health include cessation of tobacco use and limiting the intake of alcohol.

People need people, we are social animals.  Social connectedness is essential to emotional resiliency. Studies show that isolation is associated with increased mortality. It’s important to consider all social outlets including: family, close friends, proximity to other people and community environments that may support overall health.

Sleep or lack of effects everything from blood glucose, blood pressure, food choices and decision making.  Lack of, or poor-quality sleep can lead to a strained immune system. There is much that can be done to improve sleep hygiene including identifying dietary, environmental and coping behaviors.