Let's suppose you were given a hot new car the moment you turned 16. The only stipulation, this is the only car you are EVER allowed to own. It has to last you your entire life; no trading in or getting another. Now, how well do you think you would take care of that vehicle - there is no second chance. You would most likely take it in for maintenance at regular intervals, change the fluids regularly, always use the best oil, and of course, opt for the most optimal fuel - sure it may cost a little extra but heck this car has to last for your lifetime.
Now let us consider that your body is basically the vehicle of your soul and this imaginary situation suddenly becomes reality.
As a teenager: (car is still new and in top running condition and you push it to its limits, no problems)
1. Food: mostly a distraction in my all important busy life. Easier to get prepared food handed to me through a window than going to the grocery store and then having to prepare it. Hot dog at Sheetz, perfect meal, let me add some Dorito's to that and a Mountain Dew slurpee.
2. Exercise: maybe if I have time.
3. Alcohol: whats the harm, all the adults do it, it must be fun.
4. Sleep: really? who needs that, too many fun things I will miss out on. Just need a few extra 5 Hour Energys and Red Bulls.
5. Meditation: are you serious, I'm no tree hugger.
6. Smoking: sure I'll try it, besides I will quit when I'm older.
Young Adult: (car has not had maintenance in a while, you are still driving fast and a little careless, maybe the occasional oil change and brakes when you have to do it to pass inspection but otherwise still getting you where you need to go.)
1. Food: same story. I'm so busy with building my career and family that I do not have time for this stuff.
2. Exercise: I have a gym membership. If I'm single then a few days a week just to keep in dating shape. If married; I have a gym membership.
3. Alcohol: I would feel strange if I did not drink at social outings, besides its only a few drinks a week and a little more on the weekends. Besides, it helps me deal with all the pressures at work.
4. Sleep: No thanks
5. Meditation: Thats the thing they talk about at all the work wellness events, right?
6. Medical check-ups: Why? I'm not sick.
7. Vacation: No time.
Early middle age: (the car is starting to show some obvious wear and tear, needs new tires, oil has not been changed in a while, little slow to start in the mornings, some rust showing, brakes are starting to squeal.)
1. Food: You are starting to notice that your gut is sticking out and you try to eat a little healthier but more often than not your carb addiction wins out.
2. Exercise: Still have that gym membership but you decide to invest in home gym equipment, use it for about two weeks then you begin using it as a place to hang your clothes.
3. Alcohol: Still useful in social outings. Using it more to help you cope with the stressors of work, money, and family.
4. Sleep: Here is where alcohol really helps (so you think), anyway 6 hours a night is plenty, I will catch up on the weekend.
5. Meditation: Tried it for 3 days and no enlightment....useless.
6. Medical check-up: spouse was concerned that I had some medical condition that keeps my metabolism slow....what do you mean there is not a pill that will help? I know my cholesterol sucks but I will start eating better and exercising - I have the equipment! High blood pressure? Not me, machine must not be accurate.
7. Vacation: They cannot function at work without me but I will take a week at the beach with the family as long as I have my cell phone and internet for my computer.
Ok, do you see the picture? So what does it take for us to really take control? Heart attack? Gallbladder? Stroke? Cancer?
This obviously is not the case for everyone but it is designed to illustrate how many opportunities we miss. Unfortunately many of the wake-up calls are too late to reverse the damage. We all have the potential to keep our cars in top shape but we tend to take for granted that they will last forever despite the abuses.
Eat healthy real food, exercise, play, and have regular check-ups. Its simple.
Recent Comments