Vol. 4, No. 1 • Fall 1999

Secrets of the Good Life

Improving the health and tone of our bodies is only half
the secret of a long life. Taking care of our minds and nourishing
our spiritual sides help reduce stress levels and boost our immune systems. Here are a few thoughts to consider:

• Loosen technology�s grip on your life. Your fax, cellular phone, voice mail, e-mail, and beeper are meant to make your life easier, not more hectic. Reserve certain times of the day to respond to messages, and share on-call times with others so you have some protected time.
  
  
• Avoid unnecessary loads of bad news. Consider reading the paper rather than watching TV news, which tends to focus on the sensational. Choose your movies carefully�films today are longer and feature more violence and disturbing imagery. Reduce the negative gossiping and bad-mouthing you do and hear.
  
  
• Make a pact with yourself to enjoy life�s pleasures in moderation. Avoid unhealthy temptations such as high-fat ice cream and smoking. However, don�t deprive yourself of all sweets if you enjoy them; consider having a once-a-week treat.
  
  
• Explore preventative health measures. Eat a low-fat diet, rich in veggies and fruits, and utilize mind/body therapies and exercise to reduce stress.
  
  
• Connect with your spiritual side. Spiritual people sense that their lives and the universe have a meaning and purpose, and they discover ways to express this meaning. Spirituality has definite health benefits linked to longevity�the ability to accept loss and remain optimistic.

Source: Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier�s �Secrets of the Good Life,� Bottom Line/Personal, March 15, 1997, cited in Protection Connection, Vol. 6, No. 3, published by the Protective Services Training Institute of Texas.

Copyright � 2000 Jordan Institute for Families