Prioritizing Health, Family and Self 

The Juggle Struggle
Sally is a 42 year old married mother of two. She goes through her day, prioritizing, managing and racing the clock to complete all of the important 'to do's' on her list. If an unexpected, urgent 'to do' pops into her schedule, things get even more hectic. Sally is constantly bombarded by messages on how important exercise, eating healthier and reducing stress are in sustaining good health. Ultimately, she ends up choosing between her needs and those of her family. The stress and guilt that results from "not doing the right thing" is sometimes overwhelming. Sally is in a downward spiral and doesn't see any obvious way out.

There Must Be a Better Way
"As a parent too often I choose to sacrifice for myself and do what I feel is best for my family," says Sally. "Before I thought it was my only alternative; now I realize that making that choice actually means nobody benefits. My kids are constantly watching me and doing what I do and not what I say. When I choose to make unhealthy choices, my kids see right through me. My behavior leads them ever closer to living a sedentary and stressed out lifestyle. I need to make better choices and lead my family by example. If I don't present an active role model for them; they will grow up to be just like me. I am frustrated and need a solution that works for all of us.  But how do I do it? " 

Integrate Don't Separate
In business, the best company managers learn to delegate and integrate. Healthy individuals and families must do the same. Studies show that when you as parents spend more quality time with your children, they have a greater sense of belonging, wellbeing and connection. Your children are less likely to turn to unhealthy behaviors like smoking, drugs and alcohol to cope. They are better and more open communicators avoiding catastrophic events that may negatively change their lives for life. "The family that plays together stays together" is a great pearl of wisdom. Here are three great ways to integrate helping you and your children live healthier and happier lives. Practicing these steps will help make it much easier to prioritize health, family and self.

Three Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

Get Active Together
Set aside some family activity time each week. This might involve going to the health club for a good workout or to the local park to throw a football, kick a soccer ball or toss a Frisbee. Time spent as a family in healthy activity is important time spent together. Activity helps the whole family build stronger muscles and bones, stabilize weight and blood sugar, reduce stress and keep depression at bay. More importantly, when your kids see you enjoying regular activity and taking care of yourself, it sets a good example for them. This is a great opportunity to simultaneously build stronger bodies and family bonds.

Simplify to Reduce Stress
Finding yourself constantly on the go and "trying to keep up with the Jones" is a losing proposition. Instead of the go, go, go lifestyle, you want to teach your children how to balance their lives avoiding stress induced diseases that reduce life satisfaction and quality. Preserve some weekends for the whole family to do something together. It may be a simple as watching a funny movie, sharing a good book or lazing around the house in your PJ's with just nothing to do.  

Eat Healthier Meals as a Family
Sitting down to dinner as a family has been shown to be one of the most beneficial activities you can do for your children. Children learn healthier eating habits (or not) by watching you at meal time. Dinner is a good opportunity to catch-up on your children's daily activities. It's a time to take the pulse of the family unit and listen to each other. Together mealtime can also present an opportunity to discuss current events of the world and get some of your children's thoughts. Studies show that children find great comfort sitting and eating with their families.