When we think of health, we often think of doctors, nurses, prescriptions and hospitals, but they are mainly useful in helping us restore health after it is lost. Are diet and exercise the keys to good health? Despite being inundated with exhortations for diet and exercise, most Americans are overweight and out of shape. The keys to good health are mind, emotions, and spirit.
Most of the serious diseases afflicting Americans today are, at least partly, mental, emotional and spiritual in nature. Obesity, type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension are mostly preventable, and most adults know how to prevent them. Why do so many choose not to do so? And these are not the only preventable diseases. Substance abuse requires an intentional act on the part of the user. Why do people choose to poison themselves with these toxic substances? Many, perhaps most, accidents are preventable. Why do we take unnecessary risks? Why do people choose to commit violent acts against others?
Effective action for health requires the coordinated effort of the mind, emotions, and spirit. And our mental, emotional, and spiritual states are strongly influenced by our social situation and culture. The most effective thing we can do to improve the health of Americans is provide a culture that supports and rewards healthy thought and healthy behavior. Reforming a culture is a massive undertaking, but if enough individuals begin doing what we can within our spheres of influence, perhaps we can pull this off.
Posted 2021/03/26