Originally Published December 15, 2004 -- Your Wellness Guide

Top 10 End-of-Year Wellness Questions

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#10 - Is creativity a part of your everyday lifestyle?
Earlier this year, I spoke to Harry Potter Artist David Byrd about his creative drive.  He said “People who don’t experience creativity are totally unbalanced.  It’s like having a 50-pound right arm, and you lean to the right.  You have to bring creativity into your life.”  Creative outlets bring yin to your yang and generate balance.

#9 - Have you left fad diets in the dust?
This year was a great year for fad diets -- however, not always so great for those who tried them.  To name just a few that gained prominence, there was The South Beach Diet, The Zone Diet, The Atkins Diet, and The Low-Carb Diet.   Instead of a fad diet, move toward changing what you eat everyday, reduce your portion sizes, and get more exercise to take off pounds.

#7 - Are you organized in every room of the home?
There has been so much talk over the past two years about how to de-clutter your home, your office, and your life.  But what are you doing to take charge of these areas?  If you haven’t yet got a handle on your home and office, then it’s time to hire an organizational expert to help you.

#6 - Is the spiritual side of your life important?
Without a spiritual basis of some kind, be it religious or value based, there is less of a foundation for making decisions, living your life, and what to teach your children.  Psychotherapist Kimberly Kingsley treats many people who appear to be healthy but lack a spiritual foundation.  She says “We need spirituality in our lives more than ever before.  Life is moving so fast that if we are not grounded in and receive daily nourishment from a spiritual practice we will crash and burn.”

#5 - What have you read lately to expand your horizons and offer you support?
Whether it be a thoughtful biography, a life coach book, or a text about how to exercise or eat better, regular learning opens your mind and heart to people and ideas -- and may end up changing your life for the better.

#4 - Did you try a healthy food this week?
There are so many healthy foods to try these days, including organics, multi-grains, multiple varieties of fruits and vegetables, delicious yet healthy breakfast foods, and low-fat  or low-calorie versions of just about every food or beverage product available. 

#3 - Do you have sufficient emotional support?
Your friends and loved ones influence the way you think and feel and are hopefully a worthwhile investment of your time because they give you an opportunity to serve and love, and in return you might have your basic emotional needs satisfied -- to be recognized, understood, and heard.  Environmental factors also support you emotionally, such as if you get enough sunshine, enjoy a clean home, and are able to take pleasure in recreation.

#2 - What kinds of alternative medicine have you tried this year?
With healthcare costs soaring and many people not insured, alternative medicine rises to the occasion as an option for those who not only want affordable healthcare but also a cure for their ailments.  If you haven’t yet experienced professional alternative medicine, look into naturopathy, homeopathy, acupuncture, or Chinese medicine.

#1 - Is exercise a part of your daily routine?
Exercise not only improves your health but also reduces your stress -- one of the number one reasons why your body may succumb to illness.  Physical exercise options abound for every person’s tastes, and support is often a missing key ingredient for getting started if you don’t yet have a regular routine.  Think about hiring a trainer for a month to get you on track.

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