As healthy living researchers for the Aging Fabulously Club®, we report on ways members cultivate the seemingly elusive concept of balanced, healthy living. It's easier than you think. Take your "to do" list as an example. Most of our club members are busy executives or equally busy parents with action-packed schedules. But, we haven't met a club member yet who truly doesn't have time to take control of their health. At this stage of life, it’s our most important asset. Our good health will help us reach our other goals…now and into the future.

Right now, look at your schedule for next week. Is exercise, relaxation, quality sleep, adequate time for meal planning, and building nourishing relationships on there?  If not, you might need a slight adjustment in priorities. Take it from Aging Fabulously Club® members; it'll bring your whole life into greater focus. Here are a few reasons to consider bringing more work / healthy life balance to your life.

- Making time for regular exercise actually gives us more time and energy. Cardio strengthens our immune system which can translate into less downtime due to illness. Exercise also floods our bodies with healthful, mood enhancing endorphins which have been shown to boost our peacefulness for up to twelve hours.  New research is showing exercising can be done in little 10 minute bursts of activity 3 times a day.

- If you experience any amount of stress in your day, it's important to balance it with relaxation. Extreme stress is associated with the age-advancing biochemical called cortisol. When we relax deeply, on the other hand, our bodies are flooded with chemicals that help offset the damage from the day's stresses.

- Stress is catabolic. It breaks down our body's tissues. Restful sleep is the opposite; it’s anabolic. Sleep is part of our body's natural process of rejuvenation. We need this balance.

- The amount of time you spend planning your meals for the week, say on Sunday, is a huge investment in your health. Answers to these questions will show you the importance of planning. How many times have you been caught hungry with only vending machine choices available? What does extreme hunger and poor choices do to your blood glucose level? BTW, extreme swings in blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia) are anti-Aging Fabulously! 

- Lastly, part of being an adult means dealing with people. If our days are filled with frustrating contact with people who are so entirely difficult to deal with that we just want to holler, we need some balance. Who is on your schedule that you look forward to being with in healthful anticipation? Blend these peace-giving souls into your schedule. Make it a priority!

Some people may get a bit anxious when they hear the word "balance". Not Aging Fabulously Club® members! Look at your schedule for next week. Does it appear balanced? If not, just think of what you really, really want out of life long-term. With the long view, the balancing act becomes much easier.
 
Here's to more balanced, healthy living. You are so fabulous!