It All Starts with Me Baby

by John Murphy, Founder, Make 100 Healthy

Before you judge me as a self-centered, egotistical person, consider this thought: Self-care is a crucial part of long-term health and wellness.

Just like the scenario in which there’s a need for oxygen on a plane. They always tell you to put on your oxygen mask first before putting them on others. Why? Because if you lose consciousness, you cannot help those around you. Putting your well-being first is the same concept. If you don’t feel well, how can you take care of your loved ones?

I am passionate about healthy longevity and have earned the reputation as “Your Make 100 Healthy Guy” because I extol the importance of self-care as the foundation of wellness. Take time each and every day to nourish your mind body and soul.

What’s my secret sauce that drives my self-care regimen? It’s simple:

Start each day with an “attitude of gratitude.” Being thankful for another day on this earth is a gift. Appreciation for what you have is a great way to start a positive mindset for your day.

Stretch and move your body. Gently loosen your limbs before exercising. My go-to movement activity is swimming. I also do leg and core exercises in the hot tub (reduces gravity pull and stress on the body). Incorporate an activity you love, like golf, hiking or biking into your regular daily activities so it’s a joy to keep moving.

Get a massage at least once a month. All those activities create knots, aches and pains. Massage helps release them.

Eat real, natural, unprocessed foods. This is key to maintaining your energy and nutritional vibrancy. If you don’t like fruits or veggies, incorporate lentils and nuts into your diet. Local is better!

The hardest self-care habit for me is to take the time to meditate and to consciously breathe. This habit increases oxygen to your brain, lungs and all your extremities. Five to 10 minutes of meditation does wonders for your blood flow and well-being.

Finally, sleep is an essential element of self-care. In our fast-paced, always on world, it’s easy to lose sleep. A good night’s sleep is the foundation of all the above self-care habits. It’s not selfish to sleep 7-8 hours; it’s vital to keeping your body rested and ready for the day’s activities.

Let’s go! You deserve it.