Good Health - Part 1

“Long life to you! Good health to you and your household! And good health to all that is yours!” 1 Sam 25:6
 
This greeting, meant to be a blessing from David to Nabal, was rejected. Not surprising that it was rejected by a man named Nabal, which means “fool.” David meant it to be a blessing to Nabal, his wife Abigail, and to their entire household.  Who wouldn’t want a long life filled with good health enjoyed by everyone in his or her home? 
 
Healthy habits are excellent for the whole family to share.   In my research for this devotional I came across a wonderful little article offering 10 simple habits that are not only practical, but can be engaged by everyone in your home. Bon appetite!
 
1.      Cold shower in the morning – Okay, let’s start with the hardest one! A cooler shower increases circulation and closes pores, making you less susceptible to cold and flu germs. Start with lukewarm if you must.
2.      Drink a glass of water in the morning – Most of us live closer to dehydration, so more water at any time is good. Water in the morning helps to wake you up and prepare your body for food.
3.      Walk as much as possible – Reject the passive, drive-everywhere lifestyle! You don’t have to pay for a gym membership. Just moving more on your feet can benefit your whole body in many ways.
4.      Get enough sleep – Find out how much sleep your body needs at this stage of life by going to bed early enough to wake up without an alarm. Then adjust your schedule to make sleeping well a good habit.
5.      Drink natural drinks – In addition to water, imbibe fresh squeezed juices or green teas. It will make your body cells, and your bladder, very happy.
6.      Stretch in the morning – Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles and can increase mental acuity. 
7.      Wash your hands regularly – Avoid commonly transferred infections by washing away the germs several times each day.
8.      Reject salty and fatty snacks – Trade calorie-laden treats for sweet fruits and nuts.
9.      Take time for food – Relax while eating, allowing your body to rest a bit and to absorb more nutritional value from what you consume.
10. Enjoy life – Avoid fits of anger. Smile, laugh and love. Scientists can’t begin to calculate the multiple benefits that come from happiness. 

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Camper Corner
Good habits can be easier to start at your age. Look over the list and pick one or two that you’d like to practice for the next month. Don’t forget to invite your folks to join you in that challenge. All of you can benefit from sharing healthy habits at home.