Saying No: How This Tiny Word Can Change Your Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
No. What a tiny word with a big impact. Unfortunately, we don't use this word enough. Or when we do use it, we feel like we have to justify it. But the word "no" is a sentence all on its own. And it's oh-so-powerful. But how is it powerful? While every situation will have different results, one of the most powerful ways to use the word no is in our health. If you want to improve your health with less hassle, take a look at how saying no more often can change your health for the better starting now.
Saying No to More Work
Sometimes more work is the answer. When you can't pay your bills or you have a huge expense coming up, by all means, get in a little extra work. But if it's not necessary, give yourself a break. Let your mind and body rest. Allow yourself to relax and get some sleep. You have a lifetime to work, but don't spend your entire life working. Saying no to more work means protecting your physical health -- like your back and feet -- while also protecting your mental health from the extra stress.
Saying No to Food
Food is so good. So many of us find ourselves saying yes to good food. French fries, cake, caffeinated soda. We love it. But our bodies aren't quite so keen on it. If you can find the willpower to say no to food, you're setting yourself up for much better health. On occasion, go ahead and choose the dessert or the extra helping. Treat yourself. But learn to have a backbone when it comes to food! Practice saying no to the extras as much as you can, and your health will take a turn for the better.
Saying No to Alcohol
Alcohol is really bad for the body. It's technically a poison, which is why the liver goes into overdrive to clear it from your body. And it's also why you can get alcohol poisoning if you consume too much. It leads to cognitive impairment, weight gain, slow reflexes, and other negative side effects. But here's the thing: If you want to drink alcohol from time to time, it's probably fine. Just don't take it overboard. Don't do it every night. Don't do it in excess. If you say no to alcohol most of the time, you'll be able to enjoy a social drink on occasion without damaging your health.
It can be hard to say no. It's a skill that you have to learn and master. It takes time and work. But learning the power of the word no can bring big benefits into your life. Try it out in these circumstances, and you may find your health improves in ways you never thought possible.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chandler, Ariz.