10 Things That Make Me Healthy and Happy

7 Day Topic Challenge: Day 1 (Well being)

Here's the challenge

Introduction to my 10 Things that have changed my attitude to health and wellbeing

Over the last decade, I have developed ailments that lead me to go from 10-14 stone, I won't go into too much detail as it's not particularly pleasant, but there was a saying that sums it up. 

'I never knew whether to s***, shave or shampoo'

This irritability was better known as IBS, so they thought at the time. A syndrome that left you feeling like an elephant had kicked you in the stomach and then put you through a mangle. I am picturing an elephant putting me through a mangle. 

That's quite an image.

Last year I did a challenge and documented on Steemit where I tried to clean eat, did lots of random exercise and lost 2 stone altogether. Which is great, but I am still at 11st and 9 llbs, or there abouts. I had some health scares last year, and have had so many tests now that the NHS is almost on meltdown, but luckily I am doing ok apart from a suspected ulcer. 

Due to these ailments, I have become intolerant to alcohol, it's a bit of a social bore when out and you fancy a peach snaps and you stand there with a glass of tap water, because I cant drink carbonated drinks either! (Oh the joy) and then there are many other things. The worst is mustard. 

Anyway...

And here is my list

1) WALKING EVERY DAY FOR AN HOUR

This is my today face, braving it through the February rain...

I have started walking everyday as my part of gentle exercise. I pushed myself too much before and lost interest. I joined a netball group with my friends, and plan to go back, but I need to build myself back up after months of insomnia and pain. I also gained a netball injury and damaged my finger...I must get that looked at! I get motivated to walk because a new passion for audio books, music annoys me as it's rhythms get me in an unsettled pace(I know that sounds very strange) But I love audio books.

2) AUDIO BOOKS

I do not understand how it took me so long to link audio books and walking together, it's utter genius. I only listen to non fiction as well, so you learn also, which is good for well being! But it is important to maintain a health meal plan to make up for extra exercise because if, like me, you have lost the use of all body functions that relate to movement you will need energy food.

3) EXTRA SUPPLEMENTS

Now, I am no dietitian, doctor or anything else that means I am an expert, so you may need to do research into suppliments that I am talking about. Two months ago I started taking extra supplements in an aid to feel slightly human. I took some well women Centrum tablets, that really have perked up my energy somewhat.

4) LICORICE ROOT TEA

I drink a cup of licorice tea everyday, which is supposedly very good for stomach ulcers and acid. For someone who detests herbal teas, I actually quite like this.

5) Healthy Milk Shakes.

Now, I was told by many people not to drink to much milk because it's not good for the gut, but I drink lots of milk because it is good for MY gut, and if you haven't any intorences, you may want to have a think about t as it does help with acid. I was shocked when my doctor suggested it. I only use cravendale skimmed milk as it is just as creamy as semi skimmed, and it is low in fat. 

6) Slippery Elm

To me this was a game changer, I slip it in my shakes, omlettes, porridge...yorkshire puddings too. It has really helped to calm my stomach. It is utter witchcraft. It comes in different forms. (Slippery Elm is a tree and the bark is used for medicine) I use the powder form, which looks disturbingly like heroin on the spoon below. Don't worry, I am not injecting it for a quick fix. It is fabulous stuff though to aid the digestive flow.

7) Manuka Honey/Apple Cider Vinegar

Now I have been using this as a combination, as it not only helps with acid reflux, but has many other health benefits individually, or together.  As well as being good for general help and digestion, as a combination with olive oil it makes the BEST salad dressing!

8) MEDITATION

Trust me, two years ago I wold not have entertained it, not because I thought It was rubbish, but because I just couldn't do it. But the benefits are amazing. I meditate in the bath, and I really enjoy it...until someone comes home, interrupts my flow, and I scream like a whaling banshee! 

9) HAVE TIME AWAY FROM TECHNOLOGY

This is very important. I struggled to not look at my phone, go on the laptop, scroll through social media and generally be technology free. My husband doesn't use it at all, and I do believe that aids his well being. So I have time out now, for a few hours a day at least! Haven't managed a full day for some time...but maybe I'll crack that one day soon.

10) DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

I buy bottles of water and keep them stocked up. It is more costly than buying a filter, but because they are easy to grab, I carry them everywhere. In my bag, in my car, side of the bed. I promise you if you haven't been drinking enough, drink more water for a full week and you will see a difference in your skin. I look 10 years younger (Well...maybe that is a slight exaggeration!)

Tomorrow: Philosophy

DAYS

1. Well being
2. Philosophy
3. Tarot
4. Law Of Attraction
5. Working From Home
6. Arts & Humanities   
7. Short Story (Steemit led)

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