Busy families are struggling to incorporate wellness into their daily lives. So, here’s my take on what science and tradition say about what truly matters:
🥗 Eat healthy, but release food guilt.
Whole foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds—are packed with nutrients and fiber that lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Instead of restriction, aim for balance and gradual changes; listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, which help foster a healthier relationship with food.
🗣️ Speak the truth, even when it’s hard.
Open, honest family conversations are linked to improved emotional well-being, better family functioning, and stronger relationships. Regular dialogue—even about tough topics—helps reduce anxiety and builds resilience in both children and adults.
🚶🏾♀️ Move together, for the joy of it.
Being active as a family isn’t just about fitness—it strengthens bonds, boosts heart health, lowers blood pressure, and helps prevent chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes. A dinner dance off, jump rope session, double dutch, a race with kids, yoga, pilates, or whatever you like to do counts. Get those boots on the ground. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 60 minutes of physical activity daily for kids and 150 minutes a week for adults.
😴 Honor your rest. Prioritize it.
Sleep is essential for immune function, brain development, and emotional regulation, especially in children. Lack of sleep can lead to mood issues and impaired learning. Naturopathic approaches recommend consistent routines and limiting screen time before bed to support healthy sleep patterns. Pick a schedule and stick to it. Aim for 7-9 hours nightly.
💧 Stay hydrated, stay grounded.
Water supports every system in the body, from digestion to brain function, and helps eliminate toxins. In naturopathic medicine, hydration is foundational for maintaining inner balance and resilience. Dehydration causes lots of system dysfunction, from headaches to constipation.
Lastly, get medical help when it’s needed.
Don’t wait until a recurrent issue becomes an emergency; convince each other to seek healthcare intervention before it’s too late.
💭Here’s something to reflect on:
How can we make wellness more accessible and affirming for every family, in every community?
Flourishing Vitality 