The word “light” is an interesting word with varied uses. My burden is light. Her complexion is light. Let’s go while it ’s still light out. Keep it light and simple. I like the concept of illumination best. Something illuminated is clearly seen, which brings us to the intangible– epiphany. The light comes on!

Understanding what health is all about is a rarity for most folks. Having worked for over a decade in the medical field, I thought health was synonymous with taking a pill when I didn’t feel well or it was an injection or other procedure. Somehow that would magically bring about health and balance. Technology, isn’t it wonderful?

Back in the early eighties (1980’s that is, not my age) I visited a holistic nutritionist. I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. When asked why I was there, I responded, “to lose weight.” Well, that really was only part of the reason. Her answer intrigued me, and I had my epiphany regarding true health. She said, “If you want to lose weight, exercise more, eat less, and choose some safe supplements. But, if you want to learn how to take care of yourself, we’ll talk.” Aha! I immediately understood that attaining good health would require changes on my part as well as learning how to go in this new direction. My body has the capacity, yes the innate, awesome capacity to heal, but I have to do my part day by day. I wanted so much to hear the rest, and I was committed. If I had to eat grass in the pasture each day, I would do it. I’ve become fond of greens and grasses, but I get them in juices and powder form.

In America we’ve been taught to look for the cure for a headache, stomachache or painful joint in a pill or procedure.

Yet, these aggravations often are symptoms of an internal imbalance if we haven’t bumped the head, got hit in the stomach or sustained an injury to the joint. Something is causing the problem. Do you think about what you may be doing that is out of the ordinary, contributing to a symptom? Have I gotten enough sleep? Did I eat a meal that didn’t agree with me? Was I a week–end warrior and overextended myself doing yard work? Did I over-indulge? Am I stressed to the max with everything on my plate right now? This may sound all too simple. Yet, daily habits can be “healthy” or “unhealthy” which simply means they will support our body’s natural immunity, detox pathways, and other intricate body processes or they’ll be counter-productive. What are our cells made of if not the fuel we take in, the nutrients we give ourselves. Wellness (health) is directly correlated to how we live each day.

I hope this article will light your fire to learn what healthy living entails. Oh, come on! It’s not that hard. It’s exciting and fun. Lighten up!

To read more articles by Susanne, check out the 30A Guide Archives!