A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings, and learn how by his own thought to derive benefit from his illnesses.  ~Hippoctrates

As we were preparing this issue, I learned of the death of Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, a person who dedicated his life to helping others take responsibility for their own lives and control of their destinies. He lived life to the fullest, and died of complications following a biking accident—still pedaling at 79, not surrendering to Father Time. I want that!

Take a moment to consider your health and the health of your family, and imagine it 20 years from now. Will you be healthier, feeling more vibrant and alive then than you are today? About 10 years ago, my body was riddled with complaints, like a rusty automobile. I was suffering a real challenge to my health at the age of 40! Not only did I feel old, older than I imagined anyone should feel at any age, I felt sick!

In that miserable state which I would wish on no one, I had no choice but to take responsibility for the lifestyle choices, including my thoughts and beliefs, that all played a part in my becoming ill. If I wanted to get better, I knew I would need to take charge of getting better, getting well and staying well.

I sought out a team to help me get on the road again—an integrative M.D, a naturopath, a chiropractor, a message therapist and an acupuncturist. I started practicing yoga and meditation. I explored new ways of being and thinking for myself in order to challenge many of the belief systems I inherited, such as that overachieving is good, cleanliness is next to godliness, work isn’t supposed to be fun and growing old means becoming useless. Over time, I was able to define a new reality for myself—the broken-down clunker became a Cadillac!

For me, sickness was a big motivator. Because of that experience, I am now committed to working through Natural Awakenings as a vehicle to bring information to readers that may help you stay healthier, more balanced, more vital late into life. That’s why we partner with our local complementary and alternative practitioners to support and further the vitality of these businesses that provide crucial and beneficial services to the community. This stuff works!

Wishing you a balanced, vital and happy life!