“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” – Albert Einstein.
We love health. We love health headlines and we love sifting out the chafe from the grain, so to speak. And we are passionate about passing on our findings.
We’re also passionate about the bottom line, what does it really mean to be healthy? Though much happened, health-wise this past year, a few headlines got under our skin in 2011:
1) Cancer: As a rash of celebrities reported facing cancer (Wanda Sykes, Andrea Mitchell, Giuliana Rancic, Michael Douglas) Mammogram and PSA (prostate) screenings were thrown into deep controversy. Are they good, bad or indifferent? The bottom line is that neither test is physically harmful.
The damage occurs when a false positive wreaks havoc on our nerves and wallets. However, early detection does save lives. If you feel you’re at risk, get screened and don’t panic if further testing seems necessary. Until you know for sure that cancer is a reality, relax and gather the info you need for a true risk profile. That said, we also continue to be bolstered by the inescapable fact that cancer is best prevented through exercise, eating fresh, whole foods (whole grains and produce) and being in the supportive company of others.
2) Dementia: We were let in on the struggles of women’s basketball coach, Pat Summit, and crooner Glen Campbell who face this nemesis of the brain. Heartbreaking as these stories are, we were comforted by enthusiastic breakthrough brain research that proves exercise enriches memory and makes brain cells more “fit,” better able to produce energy. Those who exercise reduce their risk of dementia dramatically, and those who exercise in the support of loved ones do even better. Where have I heard that before?
So, the two biggest foes we face in terms of disease and aging have one mighty weakness: Healthy Living. In knocking a power-packed punch to dementia and cancer, we also stave off foe number three, heart disease, along with depression, sleeplessness, anxiety… The list truly goes on and on.
Though aging may be seem a distant enemy to some, a better brain today is worth an investment in the health bank of tomorrow. Where else can an investment feel so immediately rewarding?
And, on a very sweet and uplifting note (litterally) here’s a headline to celebrate: Former congresswoman Gabby Giffords is making healing strides in her exercise rehab for her massive brain injury by singing – seriously! Health, and triumph over adversity, comes in so many packages.
In short, let the lesson of the coming year continue to be universal, whether at work or at home: move more, eat well, savor the laughter and love with all your might. Life is short and precious; make it marvelous, keep it passionately healthy and stay curious!
What fed your passion this year? Share your favorite health stories of 2011 with us here or on the PATH Facebook page.
Have a Safe and Happy New Year.
See you in 2012 on the PATH Ahead.