A healthy and long life is everyone’s greatest wish as we step into a new year. To live a healthy life, there are seven “doctors” working for you—just as much as we physicians do—and I recommend that you never let them leave your side.
At the top of the list for an active day, a clear mind, and a well-rested body is quality sleep. A mattress that has not lost its shape, a pillow filled with wool or cotton, and a dark, quiet room free from electromagnetic devices such as computers and mobile phones will allow your first doctor to help you rest throughout the night.
After a full night of rest, your body and mind need fresh air from the very first light of morning. Open your curtains and windows, let clean air fill your room, and take a deep breath to begin the day. Continue with a healthy breakfast that creates a feeling of nourishment rather than heaviness. The energy we obtain from food is our source of life.
Another doctor always by your side for a healthy brain and body is exercise. Whenever possible, get off public transportation two or three stops early, and try not to use your car for short distances. If you walk for 45 minutes every other day at a pace of about 6 km per hour, you will begin to feel your doctor’s presence more and more each day.
Our work is a source of happiness. More important than what your job is, is whether you can turn it into an art. Add something of yourself to what you do. Do it with love. This is not easy, but it is possible. If you go to work reluctantly, make a plan to change it. If change is not possible, learn to adapt. A healthy professional life is another doctor working to protect your brain health.
Vacation and good friends are two more of your doctors. When you rest your body and soul at the same time, your brain will also rest. On vacation, reduce repetitive stimuli and diversify what you see and experience. Visit your loved ones and relatives, return to the places where you were born, and explore destinations you have never seen before. Reduce your contact with technology and enjoy the present moment. As you know, electromagnetic exposure can prevent the brain from fully resting.
A good friend is a treasure, a companion. With them, you talk about everyday things, share your worries, and sometimes cry on their shoulder. You share your projects and future plans and allow them to guide you. You share your love and happiness, and even your bread. A good friend is like a second brain, another voice. In short, they are the one who stands beside you in both good times and bad.
Your seven doctors are always with you—if only you allow them to help you heal.
İlhan Elmacı, MD