Even if you don’t have school-age children or aren’t attending a fall semester as an adult, there is something about the September start of school that causes us to take a pause and reset; to revisit our lifestyle and reflect on our eating, sleeping, and exercise routines. We know that these aspects are the fundamentals of health, and no medication can replace them.
- Do you get 7-8 hours of sleep?
- Do you exercise (such as walking) 150 minutes a week?
- Do you drink 2- 3 litres of water per day?
- Do have healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds?
- Do you have protein at breakfast?
- Do you have leafy greens and vegetables and protein at lunch and dinner?
- Do you stop eating when you feel full?
- Are you eating larger portions than you need?
- Do you avoid eating close to bedtime?
Beyond these measures, it is also important to spend time with people who lift your spirits and bring you positivity. Artistic outlets such as playing an instrument, working with clay, painting, needlework, woodworking, etc., can reduce stress and bring joy. What hobbies have you put aside because you were too busy? Only you can make these things a priority in your schedule.
Best of luck with your reset this fall!
Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain, and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.