I was heading to a speaking engagement with pink eye, on the tail end of the flu and strep throat. Couldn’t believe I was going to have to be seen by everyone like that! But, I had to fulfill my obligation and wasn’t going to leave the organizer of the event high and dry. So, I went, feeling really yucky and looking even worse. I was there to deliver the message of how to lead your richest life by keeping your purpose and priorities top of mind. Kind of ironic because the priority of my health was totally hindering my purpose of connecting with and inspiring women!
Oh, but my health woes weren’t over with yet! Nope. Eight weeks later I got Shingles on my forehead. Unbelievable. The doctor asked me what I was stressed about. He was right. I was stressed about everything and certainly not nourishing my body properly at all. I was burning the candle at both ends, eating lots of fast, processed foods, and was never giving myself a moment to rest.
It was at this point that I knew something had to change. I had to take better care of myself if I was going to fulfill my purpose (personally and professionally), with passion and energy. My health had to be a priority. I started researching and learning so much about health and wellness that I became passionate about sharing what I was learning. God made your body in such a miraculous way! And, that body of yours has to last a lifetime and enable you to fulfill your purpose. So, are you making your health a priority? Here are some simple things you can do:
1. Eat more raw, living fruits and veggies (and by doing this, you’ll crowd out the processed foods). I hate to admit that there was a time in my life that bagels and pretzels were my staples. I figured that since they were low in fat, they were a good thing to eat. Um, not so! Bagels and pretzels are not superfoods! They are totally devoid of nutrients, just like every other processed food. So, add in some delicious, raw veggies and fruit for energy, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and overall detox!
2. Squeeze out the sugar. Sugar causes your body to be in an acidic state and causes inflammation. Acidosis and inflammation are the foundation of anything that ails you, from skin blemishes to more serious chronic conditions, and even cancer. Keeping your body in an alkaline state is your goal. The less sugar you consume, the easier it is to reach this goal. When a sweet tooth strikes, go for a bite of raw, dark chocolate (which is actually good for you), or whip up a frothy green smoothie (with some fruit to make it sweet). These things will satisfy your sweet tooth!
3. Just breathe. In our busy lives, we often forget to REALLY breathe! But, conscious breathing is essential. It fills your body with oxygen and regulates heart rate, blood pressure, circulation, and digestion. A few deep, slow breaths will soothe and relax you, so it’s perfect for on-the-spot stress reduction. When you’re making dinner, take a few moments and breathe. Sitting in traffic? Breathe. Standing in the grocery store line? Breathe. Continual stress reduction is of utmost importance to your overall health. And, you don’t have to get a massage to reduce your stress (although that’s nice!). Take a few moments throughout the day to renew and refresh by taking some deep, cleansing, relaxing breaths.
4. Sweet dreams! As you have heard a million times before, good sleep is imperative to your health. It’s so important to your overall well being that I’m telling you again! And, we, as busy women, really need to hear it over and over again. Why is sleep important? Well, your organs renew overnight, and you need to be in a deep sleep for this to happen effectively. You must give your body rest so your miraculous organs can rejuvenate and refresh. Stop eating and drinking a couple hours before bed and try to get to sleep before 11 pm. You will wake up energized and ready for another purposeful day!
I know you have a big vision for your life. I know you are here to do big things. May I encourage you to make your health a priority so you can fulfill your purpose with energy and passion!
Casey Sollock is a holistic wellness coach, women's speaker, and author. She loves inspiring mompreneurs to optimize their health, shine their light, and change the world! True health and happiness emerge when body, mind, and spirit are well-nourished and living in harmony. She also works with brides-to-be to accomplish their ideal image for their walk down the aisle! Casey invites you to enjoy a complimentary copy of the comprehensive holistic wellness book, Integrative Nutrition, at her website, She Shines Wellness
Thanks for this great post! I really try to incorporate more raw, living fruits and veggies into our diet at home but it is horrible that they cost so much
In the spring and summer, I actually grow some peppers and tomatoes but I will admit to grabbing the cheapo stuff that comes out of a bag more often then the fresh stuff that is displayed simply because of price 
Hey Aurelia! That’s awesome that you grow pepper and tomatoes! Yep, price can be an issue, but I just tell myself that if I’m spending it here, on good, nourishing foods, then hopefully I won’t have to spend it at the doctor down the road!
We have a garden, too, which I love!! Keep up the good work, adding in the raw/living where you can! 
xoxo
Great post Casey! LOVE it! I have decided that I really need to cut back on my love for Sweet Tea as I know the sugar in there is not good! And oh, the bread…I love bread! But like you…I need to keep myself healthy so that I can complete the calling that has been placed on my life! Thanks so much for sharing!