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Growing up, my parents practically pushed my brothers and me out the door, encouraging us to go outside and play. Thanks to them, I did in fact spend the majority of my days outdoors, enjoying the benefits of fresh air and country living. Whether we were climbing trees, playing in the creek, hiking in the woods, running through the corn fields or riding dirt bikes, my brothers and I had no interest in being cooped up inside.
Looking back, I realize what a profound impact it had on my life, as it was the foundation for how I would choose to live and perhaps more importantly, raise my own children. It gave me an appreciation for nature and the environment, and for staying healthy and active.
Today, I try to instill those same core values in my kids, as we make every effort to embrace natural living and stay active as a family—from biking, hiking, walking, swimming and more. We also love gardening and work together to grow, harvest and process a lot of our own produce. Frankly, in my house, we’re always on the go and we’re always up for a new adventure.
So, what does all of this have to do with our women’s health issue? A lot, actually. As women, we tend to get so caught up in the whirlwind of life that we often forget that it doesn’t have to be so complicated. That’s not to say I have it all together—I don’t. Like most women, I struggle to find balance and often wonder if I’m making the right choices. Thankfully, as a writer and editor for Natural Awakenings, I have had the privilege of interviewing some of the greatest minds in health and wellness. Through them, I have learned that whole health—mind, body and spirit—is not only attainable, but is actually quite simple if we try. For starters, eat healthy foods, exercise, get outside, calm the mind and get plenty of rest. The best part is that with a plethora of practitioners dedicated to natural health, help is always right at our fingertips—whether we’re searching for a yoga practitioner, an acupuncturist, a massage therapist, nutritionist or a naturopathic doctor.
Lucky for me, my choices seem to be working. Last year, I took my kids to our family physician for their annual checkups. The doctor was surprised to see that it had been a little over a year since our last visit. She asked if either had ever been sick during that time. My answer was no. She asked what I had done to keep them from getting the same viruses that typically run rampant in schools and daycares. It was something I hadn’t really thought about, but I realized the answer was easy. Live simply, live actively and live as naturally as possible.
Beth Davis, Writer and Editor
