Trimming the Fat in Lean Times

02/11/09 12:43pm

In this time of economic recession, there is more than a just financial belt that we need to be watching and tightening. Throughout the media, advice and strategies on wealth preservation abound. However, there is another book of business that you must watch and protect. It is your "Net WELL-th." EverythingWell is here to function as your board certified WELL-th planner and as such I make the following recommendations:

NUTRITION: It is important to watch, not only the amount of calories you consume, but also monitor the quality of those calories. Without question recessions cause increased stress and with that many of us consume more comfort calories. We are challenged with less time to prepare, much less enjoy, regularly scheduled meals. In an effort to save money, less expensive food items rich in calories and lean in nutritional value are frequently substituted for more nutritious choices.

> Plan your meals for the week and do not fall into the trap of buying less expensive, less nutritious and less fulfilling foods.
> Schedule family and community meals and make them a priority. The associated social interaction helps in combating the stress of recession.
> Keep the mindset that there are better sources for comfort than calories, especially when those calories are quickly devoured in between meetings.

EXERCISE: Unfortunately, regular exercise is often viewed as a discretionary luxury. When time and resources become limited, exercise programs frequently fall by the wayside. Numerous studies have proven the beneficial effects of regular exercise in increased performance and stress reduction. As well as decreasing healthcare costs, you will spend less time 'hurry up and waiting' in the doctor's office.

> Do not throw out the exercise with the cancellation of the gym membership. There are a multitude of exercise options that do not require an increase in your budget.
> Look at exercise as a installment plan. You are continuing to invest in your WELL-th account. This is a safe investment opportunity without the risk of a bubble-market crash.

LIFESTYLE: Extreme times tend to lead to extreme measures where the envelope is pushed way beyond the strength of the sticky seal. Beware! Dangerous curves ahead!! The season may define what is grown in the garden, but it must never define the gardener. The priorities that you hold as essential must remain and be protected. One of those priorities must be your health as there is not a bailout of extra heartbeats coming any time soon. You are the CEO of YOU, in prosperous times and not.

> Follow your heart's example. The heart, regardless of how fast it has to beat, rests between every beat. Likewise, don't put off times of recovery and relationships. Even if the time is shorter, just like the heart during exercise, make the time.

Some of the greatest innovations in business come during the most challenging times. In a similar fashion, use this opportunity to bring about innovations in your diet, exercise and lifestyle. Continue to invest and build WELL-th regardless of what you are presented with. As Henry Clay has said, " the time will come when winter will ask you what you were doing all summer."

Scott VanLue, M.D.
Executive Medical Director
Everything Well