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Economics and Health 

Can you remember a day that did not include the phrase, “… in this economy”? The economic state of our nation, or our neighbor’s household, or our friend’s company or business, can affect our wellness, and we must not take that for granted. Emotional eaters might reach for poor food choices, some will find equally unhealthy coping skills (although more subtle than food) that can lead to long-term health issues, and the effects of stress on our immune system, psyche, and bodies in general can lead to poor health.

 

There was a time in my adult life (post bachelor’s degree) when I was working three jobs to make ends meet (“meet” meaning that if I was breaking even every month, then it was a good month) and during this time the unemployment rate was at an all-time low! I thought that the reason why I was not gainfully employed was because I wasn’t working hard enough at it; but, I did everything right. The fact is that no two lives are the same; to compare your life to anyone that you know is to undermine how magnificent your life is, how unique your experiences are, and how fantastic your growth is in this moment. I can say with 100 percent conviction and confidence that I am happier today because my life lead me down paths that I would not have traveled were it an easier road. I know with certainty that people are doing their best, even when it appears that they can do better; they are doing their best.

 

I also know that when there is economic stress within a household or family, there is a greater chance of people reaching for anything to help them cope with the disappointment of losing a job, or the stress of working in a company that is downsizing. If you are someone who finds him/herself in one of those moments (for whatever reason) where you might reach for something or take an action that will not produce a positive result; take a moment and breathe before completing your choice or action. I once heard that a "nicotine fit" lasts only a few minutes. I must believe that this timeline applies to other less healthy choices that are often methods that some use to cope with stress.

 

So, if you are fighting with the economy, if you are struggling, if you have loved ones, friends, co-workers that are fighting with this economy, or struggling with something that is pushing you toward choices you know are not healthy ones, then I recommend watching an action movie that is fantastical. That’s right; watch a movie, make it one that is fantastical. I’m not talking about action movies where there is a lot of human struggle, no. I am talking about movies where the odds are completely against the protagonist, and the protagonist wins anyway. Your brain needs the good guy to win, and you need to see something fantastical (not realistic). For example; the “Kill Bill” series are wonderful for this. The protagonist, in any given scene, has the tiniest odds of getting out alive, but she wins. Another movie that comes to mind is the “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” series. Again, the odds are slim, but darn it, she wins. “The Transporter” series is also a good choice when it comes to beating the odds. Fair warning if you have not seen these films, they are action films and do have some fighting scenes (like all action movies); but, these films can provide you with a vision of the good guys winning, with excellence, when the odds are stacked entirely not in their favor.

 

To sum up: when it appears that the odds are slim, your chances of winning are still there. Think about promoting your health by continuing to move, eat right, follow up with your doctor with regular wellness visits, and spend a lot of time doing something you love to do. Before you reach for the bad choices, take a few moments, and realize that you are the protagonist in your life, and you are the hero. When it is a choice; stay healthy.



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