4 Pillars for Healthy Living
Tips and Tools for Healthy Living
\nFinding Balance in a Demanding World
\nWhat is a healthy balance?
\nWhy is it crucial?
\nThe Benefits of Balance are seen in The Wheel of Life (a popular coaching tool), a visual representation of balance across various life areas, by Zimmerman & Puchalski.
\nThe Impact of Imbalance brings increased stress levels, burnout, reduced creativity & productivity and physical and emotional toll
\nPillar 1 - Healthy Emotions
\nUnderstanding emotional health through mindfulness, journaling, and emotional check-ins.
\n"Emotions can get in the way or get you on the way." Mavis Mazhura
\nTry Plutchik's Wheel of Emotions, a visual representation of primary, secondary, and tertiary emotions.
\nTry apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer and deep breathing exercises and grounding techniques, with an emphasis on short, daily practices.
\nThe STOP Method (Stop, Take a Breath, Observe, Proceed) helps in pausing and reframing responses.
\nPillar 2 - Balanced Thinking
\nChallenge overworking and overthinking using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) basics, reframing your thoughts and setting boundaries.
\nThe Thoughts, Feelings, Behaviours Triangle, demonstrates the interconnectedness of our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
\nRemember that your thoughts shape your reality.
\nPillar 3 - Physical Health
\nThe body-mind connection is vital and you should attend to the basics: Sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.
\n"To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear." - Buddha
\nThe Sleep Cycle explains the stages of sleep and their importance, as well as the importance of deep REM sleep.
\nFitness apps you can try include MyFitnessPal, 7 Minute Workout.
\nEmphasis on quick workouts and stretching during breaks from work.
\nThe Five Components of Fitness: Cardiovascular Endurance, Muscle Strength, Muscle Endurance, Flexibility, Body Composition.
\nPillar 4 - Wellbeing
\nThe importance of downtime and leisure can be complimented by techniques such as digital detox, hobbies, and good time management.
\nTry the PERMA Model for Well-being: Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment).
\nStart with small, actionable steps, consistency over intensity and personalise your approach.
\nBuild A Great Morning Habit - SIMPLE
\nStretch, Intention, Meditation, Protection, Life Map, Energy
\nSource: Neil Wilkins (2019) https://youtu.be/1HA-JAcJRVE
\nClosing Thoughts to Remember:
\nThe interconnectedness of all pillars.
\nSelf-compassion: It's okay to seek help.
\nPrioritise your health and wellbeing.