Rethinking Health: A Balanced Approach
In today’s society, the concept of health has become increasingly complex and judgmental. It’s a term that’s often associated with unrealistic expectations and constantly shifting goalposts. For many of us, being healthy is not a fixed state, but rather a series of small choices we make every day.
The Pendulum Swing of Health
Our culture tends to oscillate between two extremes: indulgence and deprivation. Social media platforms showcase these opposing views, with videos of deep-fried Oreos and vegan fitness gurus advocating for extreme diets. This dichotomy creates a sense of confusion and guilt, leading us to view health as a competition rather than a balanced approach.
The Roots of Unhealthy Habits
Our sedentary lifestyles and empty-calorie diets have contributed to the notion that health must be an aspirational, perfection-obsessed goal. We’ve lost sight of moderation, instead opting for extreme measures to achieve an unrealistic standard. This black-and-white view of health leads to a cycle of guilt and indulgence, rather than a sustainable, balanced approach.
The Luxury of Health
We’ve turned health into a luxury item, fetishizing extreme fitness routines and expensive wellness products. We idolize Instagram-perfect bodies and admire the dedication of bloggers who never stray from their strict diets. But this approach is unattainable for many, and it creates a sense of inadequacy rather than empowerment.
Finding a Balanced Approach
Rather than viewing health as a competition or a moral imperative, we should focus on being the best version of ourselves. This means acknowledging that sometimes, a glass of wine or a slice of pizza is exactly what we need. It’s about making conscious choices that contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle, rather than seeking external validation.
Breaking Free from Unrealistic Expectations
I don’t want to be the person who’s obsessed with every morsel of food or every step taken. Nor do I want to be someone who lives a sedentary lifestyle, justifying damaging behaviors with empty rhetoric. I want to find a happy medium, where I can enjoy life’s pleasures while still prioritizing my health.
A Case Study in Balance
My future father-in-law, a healthy French doctor, embodies this balanced approach. He’s active, but also enjoys watching TV and savoring a good cigar. He eats vegetables, but also loves a great steak. He does things because they feel good and because they’re good for him. He’s a reminder that health is not about extremes, but about living life well and finding joy in every moment.
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