Nutrition by Dawn - Blog

I love working with people who have drawn a line in the sand and decided they’re ready for real change. As we all start to re-emerge post-pandemic, many of us are looking at what changes we need to make. Many people are coming to a point where they are ready to start prioritizing their own health so that they can live life to its fullest and experience everything that brings them real joy. I love getting to be a part of that journey! It might sound self-centered to anyone who spends more time focusing on others, but it is time. Self-care is extremely important to a full life. 

The truth is, you have to put the mask on yourself first before you can really help anyone else!

I recently had a fascinating conversation yesterday about the link between health and responsibility. Sure, investing in yourself may seem like a selfish decision from a distance...but a closer look will show that choosing to invest in your health is actually a responsibility you have to yourself. 

When you make healthy decisions, you’re doing your body and mind a service. You’ll feel so much better and have the energy to really enjoy every moment of life instead of feeling constantly run down and in need of a nap. At the same time, you’re also making a statement to your kids, to your spouse, to anyone around you who might make a note of your choices. Making healthy choices sets a good example for others to follow. 

Your choices could have the power to break generational unhealthy lifestyles and trade them in for healthy living!

Being a living example of the positive impact of healthy choices makes it possible for our children to understand how to take care of themselves so that they don’t struggle in the same ways that we have. Choosing your health and setting an example is one way to leave your legacy for others. 

The next time you feel guilty for heading to the gym or spending a little extra on groceries so that you can have fresh produce on your table, remember that the healthy decisions we make for ourselves aren’t really just for ourselves. They’re for our family, our friends, and the world!

When we show that having fun means time spent outside and moving, we’re giving examples of what family time can look like outside of watching a screen. My own 16 year old son will ask for us all to go out and play pickleball, and I absolutely love that! That is my evidence in my own life that the healthy decisions I make do leave an impact on those around me. 

There are times when we really need a break.  When we choose to take one, we show our children that setting healthy boundaries is absolutely okay, and I would argue that, as parents, it’s our job to make sure they know that! 

Speaking with our pocketbooks also makes a statement to what we value. Paying for dinner at a restaurant with healthy options shows that we’re willing to invest in our bodies and gives just one more example of how we can practice that. 

It’s not just about taking care of ourselves. It’s about being good world citizens!

I would love to hear your thoughts on this discussion and whether you think investing in your own health leaves a legacy for future generations. I’d love to have a healthy, respectful debate in the comments, so don’t be afraid to share your opinion!

Do you think your healthy choices can leave a legacy for future generations to follow? Let me know in the comments!