What I have learned in the last few weeks has had a huge impact on me. It makes so much sense and is very simple. Health is not just about one’s diet and fitness level alone but rather supplemented with a true balance in one’s relationships, career, social life, spiritually, finances, and education – a more holistic approach to bringing joy and satisfaction into one’s life.

Often times we are so focused on our outside appearance but how often do we actually sit down and evaluate the way we feel inside. Is our job stressing us out? Are we involved in toxic relationships? Have we lost sight of any spirituality that use to make us feel connected?

For me personally, I have spent the last few weeks reflecting on this and working to establish this balance. When I am stressed, I crave sugar. How can I control the stress at work and reduce my cravings for sugar? When I don’t sleep I tend to eat carbohydrates like they are going out of style (this is actually a very common response to sleepiness for that quick sugar rush). Many things can contribute to us overeating and ultimately regretting our food choices, but what’s at the core of that?

Listening to our bodies is the first step. Know that the way we deal with our relationships, careers, spirituality and so forth can ultimately affect our nutrition and fitness level. Be mindful of your habits and take note of how you feel at those particular moments. If you find yourself eating something unwarranted regularly, take note of it, this may be what your body wants but not what it needs.